THE Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency, DSVA, has engaged 60 Magistrates in the State on Sexual and Gender-Based Violence, SGBV, in its continuous fight against the SGBV menace in Lagos.
The Executive Secretary of the Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency (DSVA), Mrs Titilola Vivour-Adeniyi, stressed the concerns of the State and the Agency to quell the menace to the barest minimum.
In her address at the event held recently in Ikeja, Vivour-Adeniyi noted that Sexual and Gender-Based Violence remains one of the most pressing challenges faced as a State and as a nation and a violation of human rights that cuts across age, gender, and socio-economic status, leaving in its wake devastating physical, psychological, and emotional scars.
She stressed further that "The Lagos State Government, under the visionary leadership of His Excellency, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to eradicating SGBV. The establishment of our Agency is a testament to this commitment, as we strive to provide a coordinated response to incidents of domestic and sexual violence, ensuring that survivors receive the necessary support and that perpetrators are held accountable."
She averred that the success of the Agency's efforts hinges significantly on the role of the judiciary. Magistrates, as the first point of contact in the justice system for many survivors, play a pivotal role in ensuring that justice is not only served but is seen to be served. "Your decisions, your sensitivity to the plight of survivors, and your commitment to upholding the rule of law are critical in shaping the outcomes of SGBV cases," she added.
She told the participants that the engagement serves as a platform to strengthen collaboration, share insights, and address the challenges that hinder the effective prosecution of SGBV cases and an opportunity to align strategies, enhance capacities, and reaffirm collective resolve to create a Lagos State where every individual can live free from fear and violence.
The Magistrates were urged to use the platform to share best practices and explore innovative approaches that will enable the delivery of justice more efficiently and compassionately. She maintained that the Agency and Judiciary can build a justice system that not only punishes offenders but also empowers survivors and deters future occurrences of SGBV.