Olorunda LCDA turned purple on Wednesday as the wife of the Executive Chairman, Mrs Folashade Ajose, led women and residents in a campaign against sexual and gender-based violence.
The campaign was organised by the Olorunda Local Council Development Area as part of efforts across Lagos State to raise public awareness about SGBV and promote collective action against abuse.
Addressing participants during the campaign, Ajose stressed the need for love, mutual respect and peaceful coexistence in homes and communities, saying people who treat one another with dignity are better placed to prevent violence and abuse.
She also urged parents and guardians to build close relationships with their children, encouraging them to become trusted friends and confidants.
According to the Council First Lady, children who feel safe, heard and believed are more likely to speak up when they experience or witness abuse.
Ajose maintained that combating SGBV should not be left to government and organisations alone, stressing the roles of parents, community leaders, religious bodies, schools, youths, women and other residents.
She called on Olorunda residents to speak out against abuse, support survivors and protect vulnerable people, while reaffirming government’s commitment to the safety, dignity and wellbeing of women and children.
The campaign used purple as its symbolic colour, reinforcing the call for communities to reject sexual and gender-based violence.
Ajose’s message was clear: “SGBV has no place in our homes, our communities or our society.”
She urged residents to “SPEAK OUT. STAND AGAINST SGBV. PROTECT THE VULNERABLE.”
The campaign was attended by the Chief of Staff and Special Adviser on Special Duties and Civic Engagement, Hon. Akinyele Cornelius; Deputy Leader of the House, Hon. Alice Ambe; Supervisor for Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation (WAPA), Alhaja Okunade; Special Adviser on WAPA, Hon. Oke Bolaji; Majority Leader, Hon. Ewetan Emmanuel; Head of Department, WAPA, Alhaja Akingbade; and the LGA Women Leader.