Sola POPOOLA
Stakeholders have said that .caring for women and girls is not optional but mandatory duty of every family community and traditional institutions.This came as the Oniru of Iru land , Oba Omogbolahan Abdulwasiu Lawal Abisogun II, also advocated regular and inclusive town hall meetings to curb the menace of violence against women and girls.
Speaking during Nigeria’s 3rd Men-Only Townhall Meeting, held at Oniru Palace, Victoria Island, Lagos, Oba Lawal said such meetings would not only promote cohesion, but strengthening family and community bond .
The event’s theme was: ‘Strengthening Family and Community Bonds: The Role of Men in Protecting Women and Girls.’ attracted dignitaries such as , community leaders, religious figures, professionals and members of the Oniru- In Council.
The monarch underscored the importance of community engagement in revitalising and inculcating societal values .
While urging men to treat women as equals, not as property, Oniru stressed that ” it is men’s responsibility to protect women and girls.”
The monarch highlighted the critical role of religious leaders in safeguarding women and girls, advocating for expanded educational initiatives to build safer communities.
He said “Iru Land will always welcome programs like this,” he stated, pledging the community’s ongoing support, including financial backing for future efforts.”
Chief Abayomi Daramola Balogun of Iruland who is Chairman of the townhall meeting underscored Nigeria’s challenges in child-rearing, stressing that fathers play an irreplaceable role in shaping children’s life and character. “A father’s influence in the family is critical,”
Keynote speaker Tpl Balogun Murtala Adekunle (FNITP) called on men to raise empathetic sons and actively oppose the marginalization of women. “Men must create safe spaces for women to thrive and freely express themselves in society,”
He urged, advocating for community-wide dissemination of messages promoting care and responsibility toward women and girls.
Sheikh Abulabeebah Taofeeq Busari Chief Imam and director at Daaru-Sa’aadah Islamic Centre emphasised early education for boys on marriage and gender equality.
The Islamic scholar said “Men must commit fully 100% to the protection and care of women and girls.”
He equally encouraged men to always be good hrad of the family who ready to provide and protect the family.
On his part, Pastor Adewara Olamilekan of the Redeemed Christian Church of God reinforced the importance of genuine love and accountability, urging men to lead by example: “Fathers must take full responsibility for raising children with strong values.”
Other speakers like the Ashipa of Odi Olowo Kingdom His Highness Omooba Oluwalonimi Deji Irawo stressed that many of the problems in African communities originate from the home. Stating that traditional and royal institutions must boldly address these issues.
Organised by Women Radio 91.7FM in partnership with the Ford Foundation and Voice of Women Empowerment Foundation, the event marked a pivotal step in mobilising men as allies against gender-based violence. Stakeholders committed to sustaining momentum through community outreach, education, and advocacy.
Among the resolutions of the meeting was that cultural values that promote respect and protect women must be taught to boys and men as part of their rite of passage.
Men were also charged to speak out against all forms of abuse and create safe spaces for them and stop seeing women as properties but rather as equal partners with equal rights, voices and aspirations
The forum resolved that financial responsibility should be for the men as they are traditional regarded as providers for their families.
They also urged fathers must create quality time for their daughters as well as encourage open communication
The meeting recognised the fact that the support and backing of the father is crucial for the daughter’s confidence and that Fathers should be responsible to their daughters and wives.
Like this:
Like Loading...