Winifred Bosa, Lagos 

As part of efforts to rein in incidents of domestic and sexual abuse against children, the Lagos State Universal Basic Education Board (LASUBEB) has organised a training course for LGEA/School Counsellors on preventing sexual and domestic violence during and post-COVID-19 era.

Speaking at the opening ceremony of the workshop, the Executive Chairman of LASUBEB, Mr. Wahab Alawiye-King stated that the lockdown resulting from the pandemic has increased the likelihood of children experiencing domestic and sexual violence in the society.

He said that the lockdown has made it nearly impossible for the innocent young ones to avoid their abusers, who in most cases, live with or close to them.


Alawiye-King, therefore, told the participating counsellors that it is part of their duties to act as parent substitutes and confidants to the pupils, charging them to protect the children by acting as their guardians and protectors to ensure a bright and rewarding future for children in the State. 

“We should encourage friendly discussion and monitor behavioural changes. Our responsibility transcends just ensuring the provision of quality pedagogy”, he said.

While urging the school counsellors to see the war against the scourge as a collective responsibility and an obligation to the children, the Chairman advised them to take advantage of the workshop and learn everything that would curb the prevalence of domestic and sexual violence in Lagos communities.