Sola POPOOLA
The Akarigbo and Paramount Ruler of Remoland, Oba Babatunde Adewale Ajayi, CFR, has said that men with low self esteem usually perpetrate violence against women.
Speakimg at the Remoland Men-Only Townhall meeting held at his palace, Oba Ajayi argued that true strength of a man lies in protecting, nurturing, and empowering women.
The event underscored the urgent need for men to lead as allies in fostering safer, inclusive environments for women and girls.
The meeting tagged Men’s Role in Protecting Women and Girls, Strengthening Family and Community Bonds ,was initiated by Women Radio 91.7fm with support from the Ford Foundation and Voice of Women Empowerment Foundation.
The monarch emphasized the transformative role of education and the psychological roots of violence.
“To build a society where women and girls flourish, we must prioritize comprehensive education for the girl-child. An educated girl becomes a pillar of progress, breaking cycles of poverty and inequality,” he declared. The monarch also condemned gender-based violence, linking it to deep-seated insecurities: “Men who perpetrate violence against women are not strong—they are plagued by low self-esteem. True strength lies in protecting, nurturing, and empowering women.
Also speaking, the Elepe of Epe Oba Adewale Osiberu stated that “Our society cannot progress while outdated customs continue to marginalize women. Traditions that deny girls education, restrict their voices, or normalize violence must be abolished. Let us replace these practices with systems that honor and uplift women. The youths, as custodians of the future, must lead this revolution of values. He stressed that future Townhall meetings will continue to engage men, youths and boys in Remoland.
In his welcome address the chairman of the ocassion Oloye Jide Sosan the Aro of Iperu Remo states that “Men must rise as allies to dismantle gender violence. Silence has replaced solidarity, and it is our duty to model respectful behavior for the boy-child while ensuring the girl-child grows in confidence.” He urged men to take ownership of creating safe spaces within homes and communities.
Are Wemmy Osude (Keynote Speaker) spoke on the symbiotic role of men and women in societal development: “Men are the builders and foundation of society, but women are its strength. When women are protected, families thrive, and communities prosper. We must rebuild solidarity by challenging harmful norms and fostering balanced homes.”
Dr (Alhaji) Tajudeen Ashaye Chief Imam of Makun kingdom, Sagamu states that religious leaders needs to spearhead change: “Clerics must confront harmful cultural practices and educate communities on women’s rights. Men must champion women’s development and ensure their voices are amplified in all spheres.” He further urged traditional rulers to disseminate these messages across grassroots communities.
Apostle Korede Awolesi echoed the call for unity, stressing the need for collaborative efforts between religious institutions and traditional authorities to drive sustainable change.
This initiative by Women Radio 91.7fm, supported by the Ford Foundation and Voice of Women Empowerment Foundation, marks a pivotal step in mobilizing men as proactive allies in the fight against gender-based violence. Stakeholders pledged to sustain momentum through community outreach, educational programs, and advocacy campaigns.
Some of the commitments extracted from the meeting was to push for the establishment of gender-based violence desk in every palace and discouragement of forced into marriage.
It was also agreed upon that to end gender-based violence through regular mentoring, teaching and training of boys in building the male child confidence and self-worth and prevent the cycle of harm caused by low self-esteem of male youths.
” Harmful traditional practices against women in Remoland must be eradicated. Agreement by Traditional rulers to condemn and speak against gender-based violence in their communities. More collaborations between local governments and youth leaders to curb abuse against women and girls. That all associations and clubs across Remoland will have gender-based violence desks. “
The meeting encourage faith leaders to routinely speak on family issues during sermons and community gatherings, while Traditional titles should be given to men who have empowered women.Above all ,women and girls must be treated with respect & dignity.”