IMG 20241213 WA0141

WRAHP Holds Legal Clinic to Tackle SGBV in Badagry, Empowers Communities on Legal Rights

The Women’s Rights and Health Project (WRAHP), managers of Ireti Resource Centre, supported by the Rule of Law and Anti-Corruption Programme (RoLAC II) and International IDEA, hosted a Community Legal Clinic on Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV) at the Community Town Hall, Oba Place Road, Apa, Badagry LGA, Lagos State, on December 12, 2024.

The event aimed to address the pervasive issue of SGBV and empower survivors and communities with legal knowledge and access to justice. It drew a diverse audience, including community leaders, artisans, market traders, and religious figures, who engaged in discussions and workshops to foster greater awareness and collaboration in combating SGBV.

Empowering Survivors Through Access to Justice

Segun Babalola, Senior Programme Officer at WRAHP and event anchor, highlighted the clinic’s objective:
“This initiative bridges the gap in legal services for underprivileged and marginalized groups, particularly women and girls. Survivors face complex legal systems and societal stigma, and this platform provides professional, confidential, and compassionate legal support.”

The legal clinic featured education on key legal frameworks, including the Lagos State Protection Against Domestic Violence Law and the Criminal Law of Lagos State, offering participants practical knowledge on their rights and available resources.

Community Engagement for Lasting Change

Bose Ironsi, Executive Director of WRAHP, in statement made available to newsmen at the event, emphasized the importance of collective action:
“This initiative goes beyond individual survivors by engaging the broader community. We’re working with artisans, market traders, and religious leaders to create a network of informed and supportive structures that actively prevent abuse and protect survivors.”

The clinic also offered counselling services, safety planning advice, and knowledge-sharing sessions to help participants understand their legal rights and build resilience.

Voices from the Community

Participants lauded the initiative for its impact on raising awareness and empowering individuals.

Ajose Daniel Agbakitan, General Community Development Area (CDA) Chairman, Apa Central, praised the program: “This event is an eye-opener for both men and women. The message here is clear: committing any form of sexual or domestic violence can lead to jail. We’re taking this knowledge back to our communities.”

Honorable Juliana Kugblenu, a community leader, also expressed gratitude:
“I appreciate WRAHP for bringing this project to our community. The enlightenment on domestic violence and sexual offenses is a powerful message we’ll share to help everyone understand their rights.”

About WRAHP

WRAHP is a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting women and community health through advocacy, information sharing, and capacity building. Their work mobilizes communities as agents of social change, creating a culture of accountability and justice.

Call to Action

WRAHP’s boss invited media, civil society organizations, and community members to join hands in amplifying the voices of survivors and fostering a collective effort to combat SGBV.

“The fight against SGBV requires everyone’s input,” Ironsi urged. “Together, we can create a safer and more just society.”

The event was not only an educational platform but also a catalyst for action, leaving attendees with actionable knowledge and a renewed commitment to making their communities safer for all.