The Lagos State Commissioner for Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Hon. Bolaji Cecilia Dada, has called for stronger collective action against domestic violence and sexual abuse, describing them as pressing social ills that endanger peace, security, and the moral fabric of society.

In a statement issued on Monday, Hon. Dada emphasized that domestic violence and sexual abuse should not be regarded as private family issues but as human rights violations, crimes against humanity, and direct assaults on the dignity of women, children, and other vulnerable persons.

“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 said.

The commissioner reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to protecting vulnerable groups, supporting survivors, and holding offenders accountable.

She disclosed that the Ministry of Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation continues to strengthen its Domestic and Sexual Violence Units to provide counselling, legal aid, shelters, and economic empowerment for victims.

Hon. Dada, however, stressed that the fight cannot be won by the government alone, urging families, communities, schools, and religious institutions to join efforts in tackling the scourge.

“When you witness abuse, speak up. When you suspect violence, intervene. When a survivor seeks help, believe them and support them,” she advised.

Addressing survivors directly, she reassured them that they are not alone or to blame and encouraged them to seek help, assuring them of government’s support on their journey to healing and justice.

“Together, let us break the cycle of silence and shame. Let us build a Lagos where every woman, every child, every person can live free from fear and violence,” she said, reiterating that domestic violence and sexual abuse must never be tolerated in society