The Chairman of Lekki Local Council Development Area, Bamidele Kasali, has warned residents to shun all forms of violence against women and the girl-child, stressing that offenders will face arrest and prosecution.
Kasali gave the warning on Wednesday in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria in Lekki.
He said the warning became necessary following what he described as an increase in cases of domestic violence and molestation of the girl-child within communities.
According to him, any individual found culpable of such acts would be arrested and prosecuted in accordance with the law.
Kasali urged residents to uphold moral values and promote a culture of respect, dignity and protection for women and children in their homes and communities.
He also called on community leaders, religious institutions and other stakeholders to intensify advocacy and sensitisation campaigns against all forms of abuse.
The council boss encouraged victims and witnesses of domestic violence to promptly report incidents to appropriate authorities, assuring them of protection and justice.
He reaffirmed the council’s commitment to working closely with security agencies to safeguard vulnerable members of society.
“Many cases of child abuse and domestic violence leading to death have been recorded across society, which is discouraging,” Kasali said.
“There is a need to put an end to domestic violence and girl-child abuse at the grassroots.”
Kasali added that the council would continue to partner with federal and Lagos State ministries, civil society organisations and other relevant stakeholders on awareness and sensitisation programmes aimed at curbing domestic violence and child abuse.
He expressed optimism that sustained grassroots engagement would significantly reduce abuse cases and foster safer communities.
