By Ajibola Olaide, JKNewsMedia Reporter
THE LAGOS State House of Assembly has called for stronger measures to combat domestic and sexual violence, urging the government to take a proactive approach.
The Speaker, Mudashiru Obasa, led discussions emphasizing the need for effective strategies to address these issues in schools and religious institutions.
Lawmakers proposed the establishment of guidance and counseling units in schools and religious centers to reach more people and prevent violence.
They also highlighted the importance of ongoing public enlightenment campaigns led by the Ministry of Information.
Speaker Obasa pointed out the complexities surrounding domestic violence, especially its impact on children.
He expressed concerns about removing children from abusive homes without considering their long-term care.
Obasa questioned, “When children are taken away from their parents, who provides the care they need?”
He also addressed the behaviour of some young people in Lagos, particularly those striving to live in affluent areas like Lekki.
Obasa urged for educational programmes that teach children about the consequences of domestic violence, rather than just raising awareness.
During the session, Hon. Omolara Olumegbon, representing Lagos Island 1, moved a motion stressing the importance of educating children on domestic violence.
She called for an improvement in the enforcement of existing laws and a continued focus on awareness campaigns.
Hon. Gbolahan Yishawu from Eti-Osa 2 raised concerns about the prevalence of domestic violence and stressed the need for prevention and strict law enforcement.
He differentiated between parental discipline and domestic violence, emphasizing that the latter requires immediate attention.
Hon. Abiodun Tobun highlighted the role of schools and religious institutions in teaching values and norms to prevent violence.
Meanwhile, Hon. Rotimi Ajomale encouraged agencies to support victims in speaking out against their abusers.
Hon. Aro Moshood pointed out alarming statistics showing that women are the primary victims of domestic violence.
He called for stronger laws to protect them, while Hon. Funke Osafile advocated for the enhancement of laws and policies to address the issue effectively.
