In response to the alarming rise in gender-based violence and femicide in Nigeria, the Societal Concerns Organization (SCO) is set to host a pivotal symposium titled “Breaking the Silence: Understanding and Preventing Femicide in Our Communities.”
This critical event which will take place on December 17 at LCCI, Alausa, Ikeja, Lagos, as form 11AM in the morning will be having in attendance Societal Concerns’ matron and First Lady of Lagos State, Dr. Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, Mrs. Titilola Vivour, Director, Lagos State Domestic Violence Agency, LSDVA, CP Ishola, Lagos State Commissioner of Police, Mrs. Kafilat Araoye, MD, Lotus Bank, Dr. Arinola Aguda-Oluwo, CEO, ARM Guest Reading Room, Dr. Yinka Alausa, Pharmacist Oke Osanyintolu Zainab, amongst others.
The symposium aims to foster societal awareness, encourage legal reforms, and inspire grassroots action to combat this pervasive menace.
Shining a Light on an Urgent Crisis
Femicide—defined as the killing of women and girls, often as a result of gender-based violence—has reached epidemic proportions in Nigeria. The symposium will provide a platform for diverse stakeholders, including policymakers, activists, community leaders, and concerned citizens, to engage in meaningful dialogue and develop actionable strategies to address this crisis.
Key Benefits of the Initiative
Through expert-led discussions, panel sessions, and workshops, the symposium will:
1. Raise Awareness: Illuminate the root causes, systemic challenges, and devastating effects of femicide on families, communities, and society at large.
2. Promote Legal Reforms: Advocate for stronger legal frameworks and enforcement mechanisms to protect women and girls, ensuring that perpetrators of gender-based violence are held accountable.
3. Empower Communities: Equip grassroots organizations and individuals with tools, knowledge, and resources to identify early warning signs and intervene effectively.
4. Strengthen Partnerships: Facilitate collaborations among civil society organizations, governmental bodies, and international partners to create a unified front against femicide.
The Societal Concerns Symposium serves as more than just a conversation starter—it is a clarion call for immediate and sustained action.
Gender-based violence is not a private issue; it is a societal problem that demands a collective response. By addressing cultural stigmas, strengthening legal protections, and promoting community vigilance, we can break the cycle of silence and impunity that allows femicide to thrive.
The convener, Ambassador Oluwayomi Oluwapelumi David, a distinguished advocate for social justice, recently spoke to journalists about the upcoming symposium titled “Breaking the Silence: Understanding and Preventing Femicide in Our Communities.
During the briefing, Ambassador Oluwapelumi David emphasized the critical need to tackle gender-based violence, stating:
” The event is set to bring together policymakers, activists, academics, and community leaders and aims to address the urgent and pervasive issue of femicide.”
“Femicide is not just an individual tragedy; it is a societal failure that demands our collective action. This symposium will provide a platform to dissect the root causes, amplify survivor voices, and chart actionable solutions to end this scourge.”
The symposium will feature expert panel discussions, survivor testimonials, and workshops designed to equip participants with practical tools to advocate for gender equity and safety.
Ambassador Oluwapelumi David also stressed the importance of community involvement, urging citizens, especially young people, to join the movement toward creating safer and more inclusive societies.
Why Partnership Matters
The success of this symposium lies in the power of collaboration. Societal Concerns Organization invites stakeholders across sectors to partner in this transformative initiative. Together, we can create a safer, more equitable society for women and girls. Partners will have the opportunity to contribute to meaningful change, amplify their voices in the fight against femicide, and solidify their role as advocates for human rights and justice.
Join the Movement
The Societal Concerns Symposium is a unique opportunity to stand on the right side of history. Together, let us break the silence, build awareness, and lay the foundation for a Nigeria free from gender-based violence.
For media inquiries, partnerships, or more information, please contact:
Email: societalconcerns@gmail.com,
Website: www.societal Concerns.org
About Societal Concerns Organization:
Societal Concerns Organization is a nonprofit dedicated to addressing pressing societal issues through advocacy, education, and community engagement. With a focus on human rights and social justice, SCO works tirelessly to empower individuals and build resilient communities.
