In a bid to curb the rising cases of Gender-Based Violence (GBV) in Ogun State, government has joined forces with community leaders in Ogun East Senatorial District to raise awareness and promote advocacy on the issue.

Speaking at a sensitisation programme, organised by the Ministry of Women's Affairs and Social Development for community gatekeepers (Olorituns) in Ijebu-Ode, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Women Affairs, Chief Mrs. Ayotunde Lawal, reiterated government's commitment to supporting initiatives that align with the agenda of building a safer future for all citizens.

Mrs. Lawal, who underscored the need to strengthen ties with community leaders, in order to curtail violence against women, girl and boy child, assured of state government's concerted efforts at improving the lives of its citizens.

"As Government, we will continue to give encouragement and support to all our gatekeepers within each community, whose mission tallies with our agenda of 'Building Our Future Together' and making life more meaningful for citizens, irrespective of their geographical location, gender, religious or political affiliation”, she said.

Earlier, Director, Women Empowerment Services, Mrs. Wonuola Kassim, emphasised that community leaders play a vital role in reaching and impacting their people, just as their partnership was crucial in reducing GBV cases.

In his goodwill message, Chairman Olorituns, Ijebu-Ode Council, Chief Adeola Alausa, lauded the state government for organising the programme, which was timely and essential in combating GBV, calling for collective efforts and government support to end social vices in the society.

In her lecture titled, "Understanding Gender-Based Violence and Response", the Ministry's Gender Vocal Officer, Mrs. Mariam Afolabi, highlighted different forms of violence, including, physical, mental and psychological, adding that sexual assaults could have devastating effects on survivors' emotions, resulting in anger, fear, sadness, while encouraging both community leaders and survivors to speak up.