The Association of Professional Wedding Engagement Coordinators of Nigeria (APWECON) has been asked by the Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency (DSVA) to utilise their position to advocate against sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV).
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Alaga Ijoko/Iduro, a woman who performs as the master of ceremonies in Yoruba traditional weddings, is a member of APWECON.
The Yoruba word “Idile Alayo,” which translates to “happy family,” was introduced by DSVA on Tuesday as one of its proactive and sustainable strategies to combat the threat of SGBV.
Titilola Vivour-Adeniyi, executive secretary of the DSVA, said during the ceremony in Ikeja that data have indicated that marriages solemnised in accordance with customary law and traditional practises are one of the most popular types of solemnization.
She said “the Alagas’ strategic and influential role while interfacing with intending couples and attending participants cannot be undermined”.
“Statistics from our agency reveal that over 75% of clients reporting matrimonial abuses had prior knowledge of the pre-existing abusive behavior of their partner but proceeded with the union for various reasons. 70% of these survivors submitted to customary law and marriage,” Vivour-Adeniyi said.
“We intend to infuse advocacy around domestic violence into the existing traditional marriage ceremonies conducted by Alagas in Lagos, which would have far-reaching effects.
“This has birthed this program ‘Idile Alayo,’ which, amongst other things, keeps many abreast of the growing trend of sexual and gender-based violence issues in Lagos.
“We use this medium to implore you to use your influence in the course of officiating traditional unions to advocate against domestic violence and preach the zero tolerance message.
“Together, we can salvage our state from this destructive menace.”
Matilda Ajibola Shipeolu, APWECON governor, said the event is a welcome initiative to boost their roles as comperes as well as ensure a firm and strong foundation for violence-free homes.
She added that the association had always taken it as a priority to address SGBV issues before, during, and after marriage for couples, also noting that the engagement with DSVA had improved their knowledge of new techniques to reduce domestic violence in the society.
