49 Traditional Palaces Across Remoland to Create Gender-Based Violence Desks

Emmanuel Olonade

Remo Kingdom, Ogun State – April 22, 2025 – The Akarigbo’s Palace played host to a landmark gathering on Tuesday, 22nd April 2025, as traditional leaders, religious figures, and community stakeholders convened for the  first Remoland  MEN-ONLY Townhall Meeting on the Role of Men in Protecting Women and Girls, Strengthening Community Bonds.

Hosted by His Royal Majesty, Oba Babatunde Adewale Ajayi, CFR (Torungbuwa II), the Akarigbo and  Paramount ruler of Remoland, had in attendence 31 traditional Kings from Remoland. The townhall emphasized collective responsibility in addressing gender-based violence and strengthening family values. Attendees, including traditional rulers, clerics, security agents, youths and community leaders engaged in critical dialogue on actionable steps to empower women and protect the girl child. The event underscored the urgent need for men to lead as allies in fostering safer, inclusive environments for women and girls. 

His Royal Majesty, Oba Babatunde Adewale Ajayi, CFR, delivered a powerful address, emphasizing the transformative role of education and the psychological roots of violence. “To build a society where women and girls flourish, we must prioritize comprehensive education for the girl-child. An educated girl becomes a pillar of progress, breaking cycles of poverty and inequality,” he declared. The monarch also condemned gender-based violence, linking it to deep-seated insecurities: “Men who perpetrate violence against women are not strong—they are plagued by low self-esteem. True strength lies in protecting, nurturing, and empowering women.

Elepe of Epe Oba Adewale Osiberu states that “Our society cannot progress while outdated customs continue to marginalize women. Traditions that deny girls education, restrict their voices, or normalize violence must be abolished. Let us replace these practices with systems that honor and uplift women. The youths, as custodians of the future, must lead this revolution of values.  He stressed that future Townhall meetings will continue to engage men, youths and boys in Remoland.

In his welcome address the chairman of the ocassion Oloye Jide Sosan the Aro of Iperu Remo states that  “Men must rise as allies to dismantle gender violence. Silence has replaced solidarity, and it is our duty to model respectful behavior for the boy-child while ensuring the girl-child grows in confidence.” He urged men to take ownership of creating safe spaces within homes and communities. 

Are Wemmy Osude (Keynote Speaker) spoke on the symbiotic role of men and women in societal development: “Men are the builders and foundation of society, but women are its strength. When women are protected, families thrive, and communities prosper. We must rebuild solidarity by challenging harmful norms and fostering balanced homes.”

Dr (Alhaji) Tajudeen Ashaye Chief Imam of Makun kingdom, Sagamu states that religious leaders needs to spearhead change: “Clerics must confront harmful cultural practices and educate communities on women’s rights. Men must champion women’s development and ensure their voices are amplified in all spheres.” He further urged traditional rulers to disseminate these messages across grassroots communities. 

Apostle Korede Awolesi echoed the call for unity, stressing the need for collaborative efforts between religious institutions and traditional authorities to drive sustainable change. 

This initiative by Women Radio 91.7fm, supported by the Ford Foundation and Voice of Women Empowerment Foundation, marks a pivotal step in mobilizing men as proactive allies in the fight against gender-based violence. Stakeholders pledged to sustain momentum through community outreach, educational programs, and advocacy campaigns.

The townhall meeting culminated in concrete commitments, including:

1. The establishment of gender-based violence desk in every palace.
2. No girl in Remoland should be forced into marriage.
3. To end gender-based violence through regular mentoring, teaching and training of boys in building the male child confidence and self-worth and prevent the cycle of harm caused by low self-esteem of male youths.
4. Harmful traditional practices against women in Remoland must be eradicated.
5. Agreement by Traditional rulers to condemn and speak against gender-based violence in their communities.
6. More collaborations between local governments and youth leaders to curb abuse against women and girls.
7.  That all associations and clubs across Remoland will have gender-based violence desks.
8.  To encourage faith leaders to routinely speak on family issues during sermons and community gatherings.
9. Traditional titles should be given to men who have empowered women.
10. Women and girls must be treated with respect & dignity.

The Remoland MEN-ONLY Townhall meeting had in attendance 31 Kings, chiefs, legislators, security agencies, faith leaders, community leaders, and men from all walks of life.

The first men-only townhall meeting in Remoland was initiated by Women Radio 91.7fm with support from the Ford Foundation and Voice of Women Empowerment Foundation.