Domestic Violence: Lagos Assembly warts counseling unit in schools, religious institutions
The Lagos State House of Assembly has passed a resolution seeking the establishment of guidance and counseling unit in schools and religious institutions to reach out to the public and prevent such violence.
The House at a plenary presided by the Speaker, Mr Mudashiru Obasa, (APC-Agege I), said this would further increase the state government’s enlightenment campaign against domestic and sexual violence in the state.
Obasa advocated educational programmes that would go beyond mere enlightenments to actively teach the children about domestic violence in schools.
The speaker pointed out the complexities involved in cases of domestic violence, particularly the impact on children.
He said: “We thank the agencies in Lagos State 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.”
Obasa, a third term speaker, questioned the effectiveness of interventions that involved removing children from their homes.
“If we take children away from their parents, who will care of them as their parents would?
“Even when NGOs intervene and ensure separation, what happens after the separation?.” he said.
The speaker expressed concerns about the lifestyle choices of some young people, particularly boys in their teens, who are doing everything they could to own homes in affluent areas like Lekki, and young girls who spent days out of school in a bid to make money.
Moving a motion under ‘Matter of Urgent Public Importance’, Mrs Omolara Olumegbon, (APC-Lagos Island I) highlighted the importance of educating children about domestic violence.
Olumegbon explained that the existing laws be given the needed spark while there should be improvement in sensation and enlightenment.
She further emphasised the urgency of sustaining awareness and educating the youth, calling on the relevant ministries to intensify their efforts.
Contributing to the debate, Mr Gbolahan Yishawu, (APC-Eti-Osa II), expressed concern over the high incidence of domestic violence in the society.
While distinguishing domestic violence from parental discipline, Yishawu stressed the importance of prevention and the enforcement of existing laws.
On his part, Mr Abiodun Tobun, (APC-Epe I), underscored the importance of teaching values and norms in schools and religious institutions.
Contributing to the debate, Mr Rotimi Ajomale, (APC-Oshodi/Isolo II), urged the concerned agencies to increase their efforts in encouraging victims to speak out.
Also, Mr Aro Moshood, (APC-Ikorodu II), highlighted the alarming statistics of women being the primary victims of domestic violence.
Moshood called for stronger laws to address the issue while his colleague, Mrs Funke Osafile, (LP-Amuwo/Odofin I), advocated for the strengthening of laws and policies.
