The First Lady of the Lagos State Dr. Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, has unveiled a NoRapeZone stand in Bariga, Lagos in support of the #MenAgainstRape Campaign in Lagos.
As part of efforts to end the scourge of rape, at the grassroots, Bariga chapter of the National Youth Council of Nigeria and the Mirabel Centre organized an all men walk/campaign against rape to canvass support for rape victims.
Speaking at the unveiling of a sign post declaring Bariga as a rape free zone, wife of the Lagos State Governor said sensitization campaigns should be carried out in indigenous languages to ensure members of the public understand the need to shun rape and other social vices.
“Cordial relationship between residents and local law enforcement agencies will go a long way to combat rape and other social vices at the grassroots level.” She said.
Also speaking, Lawmaker representing Somolu Constituency two, Rotimi Abiru and Chairman Bariga Local Council Development Area,Kolade Alabi urged at residents particularly the youths to shun all social vices including rape and other sexual Violence.
“The issue is on the floor of the house and we are deliberating on it to see the adequate punishment for rape offenders.” Rotimi said.
They tasked all stakeholders to ensure they work together to effectively reduce the scourge of rape and ensure Bariga Local Council Development Area remains a Rape Free Zone.
The General Secretary, Bariga chapter of the National Youth Council of Nigeria, Ibrahim Oladimeji said sensitization is key as most perpetrators of rape and other social vices are ignorant of the effects of their actions on the victims of such acts.
“Youth makes up lager percentage of every rural community, we need to create an enabling environment for the young and old. The young people especially women are supposed to be protected in our community, we are also taking this advocacy to our school to teach them skills so as to engage them to avoid crime in the society.” He said