A Non-Government Organisation, Societal Concerns, has perfected plans to hold a symposium on violence against women with special focus on femicide.
Femicide is the intentional killing of women often at the hands of loved ones or associates has become a growing concern globally and locally. Factors such as economic hardship, societal pressure, and ingrained patriarchal norms continue to place women in vulnerable positions, exposing them to hazards, exploitation and violence.
Organiser of the symposium, Societal Concerns Organization, seeks to “break the silence” surrounding this issue, empowering communities to take proactive steps in protecting women and fostering a culture of respect and equality.
Themed “Breaking the Silence: Understanding and Preventing Femicide in Our Community,” the event taking place at the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) Conference Hall, Alaus, Lagos on December I7 serves as a critical platform to foster awareness, drive dialogue, and propose actionable solutions to combat the intentional killing of women and girls.
According to a press release signed by the President, Societal Concerns, Amb. Oluwayomi Oluwapelumi, stated that “The rising cry for gender equality continues to meet significant obstacles, with economic challenges disproportionately impacting women and perpetuating systemic inequalities. In light of this, Societal Concerns Organization has announced a pivotal symposium aimed at addressing a pressing issue of our time – femicide.”
Adding, “As the year-end approaches—a period often marked by heightened cases of violence against women—the symposium brings together a distinguished lineup of leaders, advocates, and professionals committed to tackle this alarming trend,” Oluwapelumi said.
The event, which has Dr. Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, First Lady of Lagos State and Matron of Societal Concerns Organization and Mrs. Titilola Vivour-Adeniyi, Executive Secretary, Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency leading other resourceful speakers, will propose solution-driven strategies to protect women while examining the root causes of femicide in the communities.
Other speakers are Mrs. Kafilat Araoye, Managing Director/CEO, LUTOS Bank; CP Ishola Olanrewaju Olawale, Commissioner of Police, Lagos State Command; Dr. Arinola Oluwa, CEO, ARN Girls Reading Room; Mrs. Kadijahat, Special Assistant to the President on Local Government Matters; Queen Dr. Halimat Adenike Tejuosho, Founder, Queen Halimat Foundation; Hon. Kadijahat Kareem, Personal Assistant to the President on Local Government Matters; Hon. Moremi Ojudu, Special Assistant to the President on Community Engagement; Pharm. (Mrs.) Zainab Oluwatoyin Oke-Osanyintolu, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Youth and Social Development, Lagos State; Dr. Ajoke Ogunsan, CEO, Executive Trainers; Princess Folashade Oba, Vice Chairman, Ikorodu Local Government; Hon. Olayinka Saidat Oladunjoye, National Population Commission, and Dr. Olayinka Alausa, CEO, Omo-Alausa Foundation.
Discussion will be woven around critical topics like the sociocultural and economic factors fueling femicide, practical measures to enhance women’s safety and security in communities, strengthening the role of law enforcement and legislation in tackling violence against women, and empowering women through education, advocacy and economic opportunities.
