By Kemi Oyeleye,
Ogun state government has reiterated its renewed commitment to the fight against domestic violence and other forms of gender based violence in the state.
Wife of the Ogun state Governor, Mrs. Bamidele Abiodun gave this commitment at the launch and commissioning of the Nigeria Police Family Support Unit and its facility for the Sango Ota Area Command, held at the Command Headquarters, Sango, Ota.
Mrs. Abiodun who is the Chairperson of the Management Committee of Violence Against Persons Prohibition (VAPP) Law said ” the VAPP Law works effectively to produce the intended results in the fight against all forms of domestic violence”.
She added ” And we all know that the greatest deterrent against crime is law enforcement. When perpetrators of crime know that they will face the consequences of their actions, they will think twice before engaging in those kinds of acts”.
The First lady affirmed that the Family Support Unit (FSU) is a safe haven, where people, no matter how young or old, can come forward and speak up without fear of intimidation or stigmatization.
According to Mrs. Abiodun, the role of continuous enlightenment was crucial to elimination of domestic violence so that the community could serve as part of the system of support for survivors.
She appreciated the Officers of the Sango Ota Area Command and the entire Ogun State Command for their commitment to the safety of the people especially women, from all kinds of domestic violence assuring them of her continuous support for the commissioned Unit and other Units that would be built across the state.
The Area Commander, Sango Ota Area Command ACP Monday Agbonika, in his welcome address appreciated Mrs. Abiodun for her role in championing the course and providing support in the area of training of Officers manning the unit and provision of the needed logistics.
Wife of the State Commissioner of Police and Chairperson of Police Officers’ Wives Association, POWA, Mrs. Habiba Ajogun described the initiative as first of its kind in the history of the command adding that it would also serve the communities of Lagos state close to the command.
His Royal Majesty, the Olota of Ota, Oba Adeyemi Abdulkabir Obalanlege in his goodwill message, commended the state government for the laudable initiative which he said would help to ensure Justice for victims particularly women and girls.
He recommended strict penalties for anyone found guilty of such offenses noting that this would serve as deterrent to others.
