The Lagos State Government has raised concerns over an unexpected surge in domestic violence cases, revealing that a staggering 340 husbands reported being physically abused by their wives in the past year. The shocking revelation comes from quarterly reports by the Lagos Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency (DSVA), where Mrs. Titilola Vivour-Adeniyi, the Executive Secretary, expressed worry over the alarming trend. The agency is actively engaged in addressing these cases and seeking resolutions. Furthermore, the government has initiated a comprehensive monitoring and assessment exercise, conducted by the Joint Task Force on Implementation of the Executive Order on Safeguarding and Child Protection. The ongoing evaluation aims to ensure compliance with the Safeguarding and Child Protection Policy across all Six Education Districts in Lagos State, emphasizing the importance of creating a safe learning environment in schools.
Government Takes Action: Monitoring and Assessment Launched
In response to the surge in domestic violence cases, the Lagos State Government has taken proactive steps by instituting the Joint Task Force to evaluate the implementation of the Executive Order on Safeguarding and Child Protection. The team, comprised of key representatives from various departments, has already commenced monitoring and assessment across the Six Education Districts in the state. Beginning at Lagos City College, Sabo-Yaba, on October 31, 2023, the exercise has engaged over 200 schools in Education Districts 4 and 5, with over 90 schools visited for compliance assessments. Mrs. Vivour-Adeniyi emphasized that the primary objective is to gauge the level of adoption and execution of the Executive Order, identifying strengths and areas for improvement.
Educating Institutions: A Collaborative Approach
Representatives from different agencies, including the Office of Education Quality Assurance, Ministry of Education, Ministry of Youth and Social Development, Lagos State Safety Commission, State Universal Basic Education Board, Child Protection Network, and Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency, collaborate to ensure the safety and well-being of students. Mr. Kamaldeen Akodu stressed the need for precautionary measures in schools, while Mr. Jubril Yakub clarified the corrective nature of the exercise. Mrs. Ajoke Oshokoya, representing the Lagos State Safety Commission, highlighted the essential safety measures expected in schools, emphasizing security personnel, safety equipment, training, and well-maintained facilities. The ongoing initiative is a response to the Executive Order ratified in December 2016, underscoring the commitment to safeguarding and protecting the rights of children in child-centered institutions.
