Stakeholders encourage men to play responsible role in upbringing of children, wives

Christianah Alade(Intern)

Stakeholders have called on men on need to be active. responsible players in raising and guiding children, as well as ensuring a peaceful home at all time, in the interest of the nation and society at large.

Penpushing reports that this was part of the communique issued at the end of a town hall meeting for men on Tuesday which was organized by Women F.M Radio Station in collaboration with Owu palace, Abeokuta., and supported by Ford Foundation

The meeting held at Olowu Palace in Ago-Owu area of the ancient town equally resolved that men should make it mandatory that men should create compassionate safe spaces for women and girls.

Penpushing further reports that the communique added that it is the responsibility of men to be present in the family for women and girls, and equally avoid violence against their spouse to matter the circumstances

The other resolutions stated that men should create compassionate safe spaces for women and girls, fathers should not only listen but also provide for women and girls and men should show up as supporters for widows and the vulnerable in the community.

Penpushing also reports that in same vein, the communique added that men should be financially, emotionally and mentally responsible and ready before marriage, should protect girls in the home and community from sexual abuse.

The meeting pointed out that no culture has said an under-aged girl should be given out for marriage, hence, fathers should desist from such act and actions, stressing that men should ensure perpetrators of sexual abuse and violence face the law.

Penpushing reports that other resolutions stated that men should never harbour/encourage child sexual abuse and always bring the perpetrators to book, noting that there are laws and enforcement is sacrosanct.

The meeting pointed out that religion preaches against emotional and physical abuse, therefore men should not deprive women and girls of economic and property rights, and also should be present to instill values and morals in children.

Penpushing further reports that earlier in his welcome speech Chairman of the occasion Chief (Hon) Johnson Olu Fatoki, Oganla of Owu Kingdom, emphasized the importance of male responsibility in family and community life, as well as warning that women and girls remain vulnerable to abuse, neglect and violence.

‘We have come together as men, fathers, brothers, uncles, husbands and leaders because the responsibility of building strong families and safe communities’ rests on our shoulders’, Fatoki em[phasised,

Penpushing also reports that delivering the keynote address, Chief Engr. Tony Ojeshina, Asiwaju of Owu, urged men to see themselves as protectors, mentors and peacemakers, and always set the tones to uplift the families

‘This townhall is a reminder that we, men, are not passive observers in the story of our family and communities. We are active players. We set the tone for the values that will guide our children, we model integrity, discipline and resilience, and we create space for compassion and support for women and young people around us,” he said.

Penpushing reports that there was panel session which featured Bishop Samuel Oludele Ogundeyi, Dr. Idris Oni (representing Prof. Kamal Balogun of Crescent University), High Chief Gbeminiyi Atanda Baoku, Ogun Commissioner of Police Lanre Ogunlowo represented by Gbenga Adeoye (Deputy Commissioner of Police) Dr. Olumide Olasebi, and Oloye Akolawole Shoremi.

The discussions focused on combating rape, legal frameworks against abuse, and the roles of faith leaders and law enforcement in safeguarding women and children.

Penpushing further reports that Olowu of Owu Kingdom, Oba (Prof) Saka Matemilola in his remarks commended the management of WFM Radio station for the initiative in organizing the meeting, aimed to educate and enlighten men on their responsibilities in their matrimonial homes

The traditional ruler pointed out that the lesson learnt at the meeting by participants should reflect in their conduct, with emphasis of exhibiting good qualities as responsible family head, stressing that if there is any peaceful home, it is because there is a responsible head

Penpushing also reports the well-attended meeting provided opportunity for the participants to engage in a robust and meaningful interaction, as well as participation of religious leaders, police, lawyer, youth leader and traditionalist who provided details on what to make a responsible man in home and society at large

FOOTNOTE: You want to share story with us? You want to advertise with us? You need publicity for product, or service, or   event? Contact us on WhatsApp +2348073463653 or email [email protected]