Domestic violence: Lagos Assembly seeks enlightenment units in schools

The Lagos State House of Assembly has emphasised the need for a proactive approach to address domestic and sexual violence in the state.

At a sitting presided over by the Speaker, Mudashiru Obasa, the House stressed the importance of establishing guidance and counseling units in schools as a way to reach the public and prevent such violence.

The House also called on the Ministry of Information to continue its enlightenment campaigns.

Obasa said: “We thank the agencies in Lagos for their continuous efforts in raising awareness among residents. However, no law can entirely eliminate any crime; we must go beyond sensitisation and help people understand why relationships, which should be loving, sometimes turn sour.”

The speaker questioned the effectiveness of interventions that involve removing children from their homes, saying ‘if we take children away from their parents, who will care for them as their parents would? Even when NGOs intervene and ensure separation, what happens after the separation?’

He also expressed concerns about the lifestyle choices of some young people, particularly boys in their teens, doing everything they can to own homes in affluent areas like Lekki, and young girls who spend days out of school in a bid to make money.

Obasa thus advocated for educational programmes that would go beyond mere enlightenments to actively teach children about domestic violence.

Moving a motion under ‘Matter of Urgent Public Importance’, Omolara Olumegbon (Lagos Island 1), highlighted the importance of educating children about domestic violence.

She urged that the existing laws be given the needed spark, and improvement in sensation and enlightenment.

The lawmaker also emphasised the urgency of sustaining awareness and educating the youth. She called on the relevant ministries to intensify their efforts.

Gbolahan Yishawu (Eti-Osa 2) expressed concern over the high rate of domestic violence in the society. While distinguishing domestic violence from parental discipline, he stressed the importance of prevention and the enforcement of existing laws.

Abiodun Tobun underscored the importance of teaching values and norms in schools and religious institutions, while Rotimi Ajomale urged the concerned agencies to increase their efforts in encouraging victims to speak out.