By Agbo Christian Obiora
In a bold move to tackle the often-silenced crisis of sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV) against persons with disabilities (PWDs), the Lagos State Government has once again demonstrated leadership in inclusive governance. Through its Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency (DSVA), the state hosted a landmark two-day advocacy training aimed at empowering PWDs with critical knowledge of their rights, legal protections, and pathways to justice.
The training, which took place at Amber Residence in Ikeja, was convened in collaboration with the Lagos State Office for Disability Affairs (LASODA) and the International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance (International IDEA). It brought together leaders of diverse disability clusters including persons with albinism, hearing and visual impairments, and persons of short stature, among others.
This event marks a significant stride in bridging the information and service gaps that have long left many PWDs vulnerable and uninformed in the face of abuse and discrimination.
Empowering Communities with the Law
Speaking during the opening session, the Executive Secretary of the DSVA, Mrs. Titilola Vivour-Adeniyi, explained that the training was designed to do more than raise awareness — it was aimed at equipping PWDs to become proactive advocates within their communities.
“It is important that people know the laws that regulate these issues,” she emphasized. “We are also talking to them about referral points—what to do if it happens in your community or cluster. Who do you call? Where do you go for help? Which medical facility provides free care? We want to build a relationship of trust, so survivors know where to go and that they will be supported.”
Vivour-Adeniyi stressed that such empowerment is essential, given the silent epidemic of SGBV experienced by persons with disabilities. “We know they experience these violations just like anyone else, and sometimes even more. So, it’s crucial we communicate the message in ways they can understand, appreciate, and act upon.”
Growing Awareness, Stronger Voices
According to her, the agency has seen growing results from its previous engagement with disability communities. In 2023, the DSVA provided support to 11 PWDs, and that number more than doubled to 25 in 2024. “We expect this number to increase further as more people gain access to information and support services,” she said.
The DSVA’s goal, she added, is not just about case numbers, but about saturating Lagos with a zero-tolerance culture against sexual and domestic violence. “These acts are not just personal tragedies — they are crimes against the state. Survivors must know that their lives are not over, and help is available.”
Access to Justice Must Be Inclusive
Also speaking at the event, the General Manager of LASODA, Mrs. Adenike Oyetunde-Lawal, lauded the initiative, describing it as a much-needed intervention that would go a long way in increasing access to justice for the disability community.
“Such conversations rarely happen, and I’m glad to see this one taking place. It’s important that persons with disabilities are not just spoken about but are spoken with—given space to be heard, educated, informed, and empowered,” she said.
She called on other states across the country to emulate the Lagos model and prioritize disability-inclusive programming in their justice and advocacy systems.
Rights Begin with Knowledge
Representing the State Resources and Admin team for the Rule of Law and Anti-Corruption Program, Mrs. Abimbola Ushie of International IDEA drove home a critical point: “There are different people advocating for persons with disabilities, but none can do it better than the people themselves. They are the ones who know where the shoe pinches.”
She urged participants to first see themselves as rights-holding Nigerians before anything else, stressing that the Lagos State Disability Law is there to protect them — but they must first be aware of what it says.
Participants Applaud Inclusive Approach
The feedback from participants was overwhelmingly positive. Many expressed gratitude for the opportunity to learn, network, and engage with legal experts and government agencies in a supportive environment.
“I never knew there was a law that clearly states my rights as a person with hearing impairment,” said one participant. “Now I know how to report abuse and access support without fear.”
Another participant emphasized how the training restored a sense of agency and confidence. “They didn’t just talk at us. They spoke with us, and that means a lot. We need more of these.”
A Model for Disability-Inclusive Advocacy
As Lagos State continues to chart a path forward in inclusive policy and social reform, this advocacy training signals a broader recognition: that true justice and development must include everyone, especially those historically left behind.
The collaboration between DSVA, LASODA, and International IDEA stands as a model for other states and development agencies. More importantly, it reminds us that empowering persons with disabilities is not an act of charity — it is a matter of rights, dignity, and justice.
In the words of Mrs. Vivour-Adeniyi: “A truly safe Lagos is one where every voice matters, every right is respected, and no one—absolutely no one—is left behind.”
