Bolaji Adelaja
In a decisive push to tackle sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV) in Lagos State, the Women’s Rights and Health Project (WRAHP), managers of the Ireti Resource Centre, convened a Community Legal Clinic on Friday, June 27, 2025, at the Akitan Community Town Hall in Alimosho Local Government Area.
The event is part of WRAHP’s ongoing 24-month initiative titled “Protecting Women and Girls from Sexual Violence through Changes in Behaviour, Practices and Attitudes of Community Members in Three Local Government Areas in Lagos State”, supported by the African Women’s Development Fund (AWDF). The project spans Alimosho, Ojo, and Oshodi-Isolo LGAs, focusing on preventing sexual violence and improving access to justice and psychosocial support for survivors.
In a statement issued to newsmen at the event, WRAHP’s Executive Director, Mrs. Bose Ironsi, said the legal clinic was designed to provide professional, confidential, and compassionate legal counsel to survivors, while also serving as a hub for community education on human rights and SGBV-related laws, including the Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Act (VAPP).
“The clinic empowers participants with knowledge of their rights and equips them with safety planning skills. Beyond helping individuals, we are engaging religious leaders, artisans, and market traders to build a more informed and responsive community,” Ironsi noted.
The legal clinic featured presentations from seasoned lawyers and mental health advocates, reinforcing the message that access to justice must be survivor-centered, inclusive, and trauma-informed.
Opening the clinic, Mrs. Precious Eberechukwu, Manager of the Ireti Resource Centre, addressed the often-overlooked impact of domestic violence within marriages. Using relatable scenarios, she explained the psychological toll of physical abuse on both partners and their children.
“Mental health challenges arising from domestic abuse are real and should not be ignored. We have specialists who can help victims recover. Remember, it is better to leave so you can live,” she emphasized.
She further educated the participants on the differences between gender and sex, and highlighted that while both men and women can experience harassment, women remain disproportionately affected. She cautioned against tampering with evidence after an assault, urging survivors to seek help immediately.
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Legal Experts Demystify SGBV Laws and Support Pathways
In her interactive session, Barrister Cynthia Ibeh invoked the rallying call: “See something, say something, and do something immediately.”
She sensitized the audience on Child Right Law of Lagos State, and the specific legal protections enshrined in Lagos State law, along with the punitive consequences for offenders.
Barrister Amaka Agianpuye expanded the conversation to various forms of violence, including Lagos State Protection Against Domestic Violence Law, financial, and social abuse. She also shared actionable tips on how community members can support survivors and connect them with help.
“Violence wears many faces. Being able to recognize them is the first step in offering support,” Agianpuye stated.
The clinic concluded with a lively Q&A session, allowing participants to clarify doubts and engage directly with the facilitators. Attendees were also offered the opportunity to book private consultations with the legal team.
About WRAHP and the Ireti Resource Centre
WRAHP, through the Ireti Resource Centre, provides free counselling, legal aid, psychosocial support, and referral services for survivors of sexual and gender-based violence. The organization remains a leading voice in promoting women’s rights, access to justice, and mental health awareness across underserved communities in Lagos.