The Lagos State Commissioner for Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Bolaji Dada, has said that domestic violence and sexual abuse are not private issues but “violations of human rights” that thrive in secrecy.
In a statement, she stressed that the Lagos State government is committed to protecting vulnerable individuals and holding offenders accountable, but it cannot win the fight alone.
Dada described domestic violence and sexual abuse as pervasive social ills that leave deep, often invisible, scars on victims regardless of age or social class.
She called on communities, families, religious institutions, schools, and individuals to stand united against these acts.
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“Domestic violence and sexual abuse thrive in silence. When victims are too afraid or ashamed to speak, perpetrators continue to harm others without consequence. That is why we must collectively say no more silence, no more violence”, she stated.
The Commissioner highlighted the work of the Ministry’s Domestic and Sexual Violence Units, which provide counselling, legal support, shelter, and economic empowerment to help survivors rebuild their lives.
She urged anyone who witnesses or suspects abuse to intervene and to believe and support survivors who seek help.
Addressing survivors directly, Dada assured them that they are not to blame and are not alone.
“Help is available, and we are here to walk with you on the path to healing and justice,” she said, urging a collective effort to “break the cycle of silence and shame” and build a Lagos where everyone can live free from fear and violence.
