Lagos DSVA Inaugurates Community Dialogue Committee Members In Ojo LGA

In its continuous effort to strengthen community structures for the prevention and response to Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV), the Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency (DSVA), through its Community Engagement Team, convened a Community Dialogue Committee (CDC) meeting for the Ojo axis. The meeting brought together key stakeholders from Ojo Local Government Area, Iba Local Council Development Area (LCDA), and Otto-Awori LCDA, reaffirming the agency’s commitment to tackling SGBV at the grassroots level and fostering safer communities across the state.

The meeting commenced with a welcome address by Dr. Agbogunleri Damilare, who commended the Lagos DSVA for its sustained commitment to addressing issues of sexual and gender-based violence. He highlighted the importance of consistent community engagement and collaboration as effective strategies for achieving the state government’s vision of a violence-free society.

During the interactive session, Ms. Adetoun Odumbo sensitised participants on the various forms of abuse and the available support services for survivors. She emphasized the importance of timely reporting through the Agency’s toll-free line and its sub-offices spread across the state, ensuring that victims receive the necessary care, protection, and justice. Her presentation encouraged participants to become advocates for awareness and accountability within their communities.

Mrs. Gbemisola Aliyu also educated attendees on the legal implications of Sexual and Gender-Based Violence, stressing the role of the law in ensuring justice and deterring potential offenders. Mr. Akinde Emmanuel further elaborated on the duties of CDC members, underscoring their roles in facilitating dialogue, identifying and referring cases, and acting as vital links between their communities and the DSVA.

The session concluded with a closing prayer by Mr. Mendes Bodunrin, who expressed appreciation to the Agency and participants for their dedication and active involvement. Participants, in turn, lauded the Lagos DSVA for its proactive approach and pledged their continued collaboration in promoting a zero-tolerance stance against all forms of Sexual and Gender-Based Violence within their respective communities.