By Henry Oladele

 The Oniru of Iru, Oba Abdulwasiu Lawal Abisogun II, on Tuesday urged men to treat women as equals and not as property.

He made the call during Nigeria’s 3rd Men-Only Townhall Meeting, held at Oniru Palace, Victoria Island, Lagos.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the event’s theme was: ‘Strengthening Family and Community Bonds: The Role of Men in Protecting Women and Girls’.

Community leaders, religious figures, and professionals attended the event to explore ways to promote cultural accountability and shared responsibility.

“Men must stop viewing women as possessions. Women deserve equal rights, voices, and aspirations,” Oba Lawal said.

He further urged men to challenge all forms of abuse and create safe, supportive spaces for women.

In his opening remarks, Lawal highlighted the weight of fatherhood and the need for men to continue learning.

He stressed the important role religious leaders play in protecting women and girls through education and advocacy.

He pledged Iru community’s support for such programmes, including financial backing for future initiatives.

Chief Abayomi Daramola, Balogun of Iru and Chairman of the meeting, addressed Nigeria’s parenting challenges.

He emphasised a father’s key role in shaping children’s values and character within the home.

Keynote Speaker, Mr Balogun Murtala, called on men to raise empathetic sons and reject the marginalisation of women.

“Men must foster environments where women can thrive and express themselves freely,” he said.

He called for communities to spread messages of care and responsibility towards women and girls.

Sheikh Abulabeebah, Chief Imam and Director at Daaru-Sa’aadah Islamic Centre, stressed early education on marriage and equality for boys.

He urged men to commit fully to protecting and caring for women and girls.

Mr Olamilekan Adewale, a Pastor in the Redeemed Christian Church of God, spoke on love and accountability.

He advised men to lead by example and raise children with solid moral foundations.

The Ashipa of Odi Olowo community, Mr Deji Oluwalonimi, said many African problems begin at home.

He urged traditional and royal institutions to confront these issues directly and openly.

NAN reports that the meeting stressed teaching boys cultural values that promote respect for women.

Financial responsibility remains a key role for men, as traditional providers in families.

Participants agreed that caring for women and girls is a duty, not a choice, for all institutions. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Kamal Tayo Oropo