BY ALLEN OLUWASEGUN DANIEL
The Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency (DSVA), on Friday, held a one-day training for Court Registrars of the Lagos State Judiciary on Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV).
The one-day workshop, which was held at the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI), had about 90 legal Registrars in attendance.
In her opening remarks, the Executive Secretary of DSVA, Mrs. Titilola Vivour-Adeniyi, who was represented by the Programmes Officer, Ms. Zainab Alaka, said the decisions and actions of the Registrars have a profound impact on the lives of those who come before the court.
She stressed, “As court registrars, you play a pivotal role in the administration of justice”.
Vivour-Adeniyi said the Registrars needed to have a thorough understanding of the complexities of domestic and sexual violence and the legal framework in place to address these heinous crimes as they will learn about the various forms of abuse, legal remedies available to victims, and the challenges they often face in seeking justice.
The Executive Secretary averred that the training was designed to equip the participants with the knowledge and skills necessary to handle domestic and sexual violence cases effectively.
Also speaking at the training, the Chief Registrar, Lagos State Judiciary, Tajudeen A. Elias emphasised that SGBV is a heinous crime and with collective efforts, it would become a thing of the past in Lagos State.
On his part, Director of Public Prosecutions, Lagos State Ministry of Justice, Dr. Babajide Martins facilitated a session on the Relevant Laws on SGBV as well as the Role of Court Registrars in implementing these Laws.
He emphasised the importance of showing empathy and listening attentively to survivors when they engage with them. He also stated that there is an obligation on every Civil Servant to report any case of abuse they witness/observe.
Mrs. Juliet Olumuyiwa-Rufai facilitated the second session on Understanding Gender Roles.
She stated that GBV is a public health issue and is largely rooted in individual attitudes and social norms and that it thrives in a culture of silence.