By Lukman Olabiyi
In a determined effort to combat the rising tide of Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV) and improve access to justice for vulnerable populations, the Women’s Rights and Health Project (WRAHP) has launched a free community legal clinic in the Mushin Local Government, Lagos State.
The initiative, supported by the Rule of Law and Anti-Corruption Programme (RoLAC II) and the International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance (IDEA), aimed to empower survivors of SGBV, while promoting justice at the grassroots level.
At the outreach event held on Tuesday, participants were given free legal advice, counseling, and education on their rights under critical state laws such as the Lagos State Protection Against Domestic Violence Law, the Criminal Law of Lagos State, and the Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency Law.
WRAHP Executive Director, Bose Ironsi, described the legal clinic as a crucial intervention in addressing persistent SGBV cases within communities.
“Our focus is to empower communities and survivors. This clinic bridges the gap in legal services, ensuring that underprivileged and marginalized groups, especially women and girls can access justice,” she said.
Clementina Olaniyan, Secretary of the Human Rights Committee of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Ikeja branch, also commended the initiative, stressing the importance of community-level interventions.
“This initiative is timely. We’ve observed a rise in gender-based violence. Starting with the community is the best approach. We’ve educated them about these offenses, the punishments, and the legal remedies available to survivors,” she said.
Iyabo Akingbade of the Legal Aid Council, Lagos office, emphasized the need for increased awareness to tackle the menace effectively.
“We are here today to discourage anyone from engaging in such acts. Our goal is to empower people with the knowledge to prevent these crimes and to encourage them to speak up when such incidents occur in their community,” she said.
Chairperson of local artisans, Alhaja Okunola Oluwakemi Mary praised the organisers and urged participants to share the knowledge gained with others.
“Those of us privileged to attend this programme must spread the message across the community and within our families. We deeply appreciate the organisers and encourage them to continue this impactful initiative,” she said.