Abusive childhoods, toxic homes fuel violent behaviour in most adults — DSVA boss, Vivour-Adeniyi

Titilola Vivour-Adeniyi, Executive Secretary of the Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency (DSVA), discusses the challenges and trauma faced by survivors of gender-based violence in Lagos. She emphasizes the importance of addressing socio-cultural issues and mindsets, as well as providing support and access to justice for survivors.

The stigma surrounding abuse often prevents victims from speaking out, keeping them trapped in abusive environments. The agency offers psychotherapy sessions to support survivors and prevent the intergenerational transfer of abuse. Many survivors remain in abusive relationships due to financial dependency, socio-cultural factors, and religious contradictions.