…Initiative Backs Global Campaign Against Digital Violence Targeting Women and Girls
Onigbongbo Local Council Development Area (LCDA) has entered into a strategic partnership with the Legal Aid Council of Nigeria (LACON) to provide free legal services to indigent residents, in a move aimed at expanding access to justice and protecting vulnerable groups within the community.
Speaking on behalf of the Executive Chairman, Hon. Moyosore Adebanjo, the Council Manager, Mr. Abiodun Oshineye, described the collaboration as a milestone in the Council’s efforts to ensure fairness and equity for all. He noted that many low-income earners are often unable to secure legal representation, leaving them disadvantaged in the pursuit of justice.
“The administration remains committed to upholding justice, fairness, and the protection of fundamental human rights. This partnership will enable our indigent residents to access quality legal services at no cost, thereby promoting equity and social inclusion,” Oshineye said.
The initiative also supports the global advocacy campaign themed “End Digital Violence Against Women and Girls,” which aims to curb online harassment, cyberstalking, identity theft, and other forms of digital gender-based violence. According to the LCDA, safeguarding women and girls—both offline and online—remains a core priority.
Delivering her goodwill message, the Vice Chairman of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Ikeja Branch, Mrs. Chinenye Udeh, reaffirmed the commitment of the Association and the Legal Aid Council to partner with the LCDA for effective service delivery. She stressed that the collaboration would widen access to legal representation, mediation, counselling, and other statutory services provided under the Legal Aid Act.
The free legal services will cover a broad range of areas, including:
Enforcement of fundamental human rights
Gender-based and domestic violence cases
Cyber harassment and digital abuse
Family custody and marital matters
Children’s rights and protection under the Child Rights Act
Tenant–landlord disputes under relevant tenancy laws
Criminal and civil matters permissible under LACON’s mandate
Residents were urged to speak out against abuse, particularly in cases involving gender-based violence, domestic assault, or child abuse. Officials emphasized that silence enables perpetrators, and encouraged prompt reporting to the appropriate authorities.
To further ease access, a dedicated Legal Help Desk will be established within the LCDA, bringing legal assistance closer to grassroots communities.
Representing the Executive Chairman, the Chief of Staff expressed appreciation to LACON, the NBA, and other stakeholders for their support. He reiterated Hon. Adebanjo’s commitment to strengthening justice institutions and protecting the rights and welfare of residents across Onigbongbo LCDA.
The event was attended by the management team of Onigbongbo LCDA, community stakeholders, market and women leaders, members of the National Youth Council of Nigeria (Onigbongbo Chapter), media representatives, and other distinguished guests.
