By Benson Daniel
Residents of Lagos Island have called for stronger action to prevent domestic and sexual violence, urging individuals, families and community leaders to speak up and support victims and survivors.
The call was made during an advocacy walk organised by the Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency as part of activities marking the 2026 Domestic and Sexual Violence Awareness Month.
The campaign took the message directly into the community, with residents, government officials, advocates and other stakeholders marching from Sura Primary Health Centre to the Lagos Island Local Council.
Participants used the walk to raise awareness about the need to prevent violence, encourage reporting and ensure that survivors receive the support they need.
A member of the Lagos State House of Assembly representing Lagos Island Constituency I, Lara Oyekan Olumegbon, said tackling domestic and sexual violence could not be left to government alone.
She called for sustained community involvement, urging residents to speak out when they become aware of cases and to support efforts aimed at protecting victims and survivors.
The Permanent Secretary of Lagos State Health District IV, Dr Abimbola Bowale, also highlighted the role of the health sector in responding to cases of domestic and sexual violence.
He stressed the importance of ensuring that survivors receive timely, compassionate and appropriate care when they seek assistance.
The Executive Secretary of the Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency, Titilola Vivour-Adeniyi, said taking the awareness campaign to Lagos Island was part of efforts to ensure that the message of prevention and zero tolerance reached communities directly.
She said the awareness month provides an opportunity to deepen conversations around domestic and sexual violence while encouraging victims and survivors to speak out and reminding members of the public that everyone has a role to play in preventing abuse.
The advocacy walk ended at the Lagos Island Local Council, where participants were received by the council chairman, Taiwo Ajibade Oyekan.
Throughout the walk, participants displayed messages promoting prevention, reporting and support for survivors, drawing attention to forms of violence that often remain hidden within homes and communities.
The campaign also reinforced the importance of cooperation between government agencies, health workers, community leaders, families and residents in tackling domestic and sexual violence.
Stakeholders said sustained awareness, early reporting and access to appropriate support remain important in protecting vulnerable people and ensuring that survivors are not left to face the consequences of abuse alone.
The Lagos State Government has continued to strengthen its response to domestic and sexual violence through the Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency, which coordinates support and response services for survivors across the state.
The Lagos Island campaign is expected to contribute to broader efforts to encourage residents to reject violence, report abuse and create safer communities for women, children and other vulnerable persons.
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