Ogun state Deputy Governor, Engr. Noimot Salako-Oyedele, has called on journalists to leverage their profession in exposing and shaming perpetrators of domestic violence. She made this call at the Year 2025 Ramadan Lecture organized by the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ) Information Chapel, held at the Mini Arcade Ground, Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta. The lecture, themed ‘Domestic Violence: A Growing Global Concern, Islamic Panacea to the Rescue’, highlighted the urgent need for collective efforts to combat domestic violence in society.
Engr. Salako-Oyedele emphasized that domestic violence affects everyone—whether as a witness, a victim, or a perpetrator. Citing Islamic teachings, she stressed that violence is forbidden and urged journalists to use their platforms to name, shame, and expose offenders.
“Allah forbids domestic violence, and He has commanded us to act against what we abhor. This issue goes beyond mere disapproval; we must take active steps to stop it. As professionals, you have the responsibility to highlight this menace and make it something society finds unacceptable. Let’s blacklist all perpetrators, ensuring they are exposed without compromise,” she stated.
She commended the NUJ Information Chapel for consistently organizing the Ramadan lecture and thanked members for their support in making the event a success. Additionally, she appreciated the guest lecturer for imparting knowledge and prayed for his continued wisdom and protection.
Delivering the keynote lecture, the Chief Imam of Lagos State House of Assembly, Dr. Abdul Hakeem Abdul Lateef, categorized domestic violence into physical, emotional, psychological, and self-inflicted abuse.
He attributed the root causes to multiple factors, including: lack of accountability for perpetrators, effects of childhood trauma,victims of broken homes, aeer pressure, Mental illness, Forced or false marriages and anger issues and religious differences
Dr. Abdul Lateef stressed that domestic violence is a daily occurrence that affects individuals, families, and society at large. He urged those in doubt about their relationships to seek guidance, avoid jealousy and envy, and use their knowledge for positive change rather than destruction.
He also identified key professions—including judges, journalists, lawyers, and law enforcement officers—as crucial in addressing domestic violence. Referencing the Quran (Q4:105-112, Q4:135), he emphasized the role of justice and accountability in curbing the menace.
Speaking at the event, the Chairman of the occasion and National President of ACCOMORAN, Alhaji Samsideen Apelogun, described Ramadan as a time for spiritual renewal and reflection. He noted that domestic violence cases have surged in recent times and urged all stakeholders to intensify efforts to curb it. He commended the Ogun State Government for its commitment to tackling gender-based violence.
NUJ Information Chapel Chairman, Comrade Femi Osipitan, reaffirmed the chapel’s dedication not only to members’ welfare but also to their spiritual growth. He encouraged journalists to show love, embrace peace, and uphold Islamic teachings during and beyond Ramadan.
In his appreciation speech, Chairman of the NUJ Ramadan Planning Committee, Mr. Surajudeen Popoola, expressed gratitude to Allah and all participants for making the event a success. The lecture concluded with a Quranic recitation by Alhaji Musiliu Osanyintola, marking a spiritually uplifting end to the gathering.
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