Students of Adebola Baptist Senior High School and residents have been enjoined to speak up against Domestic and Sexual Violence, as a way of preventing abuses and vices that can affect their progress in life. The advice was given by various speakers at a two-day programme organised as part of activities marking the Y2024 Domestic and Sexual Awareness Month by the Randle General Hospital, Surulere. A member of the Lagos State House of Assembly representing Surulere Constituency, Honourable Desmond Elliot, in his address at the event, explained that the programme was designed to educate as many people as possible on the menace. He said that in Nigeria, lots of people are suffering domestic violence, either physically or through abusive words. Hence sensitisation is needed for people to have respect for each other. While advising that the victims have a right to report cases when they occur, the Honourable stressed that domestic violence is not only about women but concerns everyone, irrespective of age or gender. The Medical Director/CEO of RGH, Dr. Olumide Sojinrin declared that the hospital is ever ready to support everybody, adding that all staff have been enjoined to do everything in their power to assist victims of SGBV in the community. The Head of Department, Social Welfare in the Hospital, Mr. Mojeed Olabode took the students on an interactive session, detailing the meaning of SGBV, causes and harmful effects of domestic and gender-based violence. A Consultant, Obstetrics & Gynaecology (O&G), Dr. Shakirat Smith-Okonu appealed to the students to see themselves as leaders of tomorrow, and as such, should avoid vices that could hinder their progress. She said they should avoid going out with strangers or allowing the opposite sex to touch their private parts and delay any form of sexual activity till they are adults or married. “You are also not to dress indecently or inappropriately or follow friends to parties. Ensure to always inform your parents of your whereabouts”, she advised. On her part, Apex Nurse Boateng Elizabeth pointed out that domestic violence also includes force marriages, child genital mutilation and right violation, adding that the hospital health workers are always poised to help survivors and protect their dignity. Other speakers, at the event that witnessed a large turnout of students and teachers, encouraged participants, especially the students, to say something, when they see something, to say NO to Sexual Abuse, Rape and Domestic Violence, and to report cases appropriately, in line with the dictate of the Month’s slogans.
