LAGOS DSVA ENGAGES APTWECON MEMBERS ON “IDILE ALAYO” INITIATIVE

The Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency (DSVA) has engaged members of the Association of Professional Traditional Wedding Engagement Coordinators of Nigeria (APTWECON) in Lagos State on their role in preventing the menace of Domestic and Sexual Violence in the State under the theme “IDILE ALAYO”.

Speaking at the event held at Adeyemi-Bero Auditorium, Alausa, the Executive Secretary of DSVA Titilola Vivour-Adeniyi explained that the Agency is embarking on sustainable and proactive programmes in its unrelenting fight against the menace of SGBV.

Vivour-Adeniyi stressed that statistics have shown that marriage contracted under customary law and traditional practices is one of the preferred forms of solemnisation where the ‘Alaga Ijoko/Iduro’ plays a strategic and influential role in the affairs of marriage coordination.

“Statistics from our Agency reveal that more than 80% of clients who reported matrimonial abuses had prior knowledge of the pre-existing abusive behaviour of their partner but proceeded with the union for various reasons. 70% of these survivors submitted to customary law and marriage”.  

The Executive Secretary, who reiterated that no one will be left behind in putting an end to the destructive menace, added that the infusion of advocacy around Domestic Violence into traditional marriage ceremonies conducted by ‘Alagas’ would have far-reaching effects on marriages.

While stating that the birth of “Idile Alayo” programme has kept many abreast of the growing trend of Sexual and Gender-Based Violence issues in Lagos State, she implored members of the association to use their influence in the course of officiating traditional unions to advocate against Domestic Violence and preach the zero-tolerance message.

She noted that the collaborative programme since its launch has been encouraging, adding that the Agency has previously engaged Marriage Registrars, the Association of Professional Traditional Wedding Engagement Coordinators of Nigeria (APTWECON) and key stakeholders in the sector.

In his goodwill message, the APTWECON Governor,  Mr. Kayode Omotosho (Sir K) described the engagement as a welcome initiative that will enhance their roles in the promotion of a violence-free home during the marriage ceremony.

While lauding the Agency’s commitment to the noble course, Omotosho stressed the need for further collaborative engagements with the State Government to further support a violence-free home and society.

He said the association had always taken it as a priority to address sexual and gender-based violence issues before, during and after marriage, stating that the engagement would improve their knowledge base in the campaign against domestic violence.

All facilitators at the event emphasised the role of culture and tradition in preventing sexual and gender-based violence.