The Youthcare Development and Empowerment Initiative (YcDEI) convened a Town Hall Meeting focused on preventing gender-based violence (GBV) through collaboration with faith leaders.

 Prof. Adefunke Ekine gave her opening remarks to begin the program. Goodwill messages were given by Pst. Dare representing the Oyo State CAN Chairman; Rev. Elekima Ekine representing the YcDEI Chairperson Board; Mrs. Agein, Mr. Bayonle, representing ACADI; and Mr. Ogunjimi, representing the Commissioner for Women Affairs. Mr. Ogunjimi emphasized that the Ministry cannot end GBV alone, commended YcDEI for complementing government efforts, described GBV as a family issue, and noted the strong support of the Oyo State Government under Engr. Seyi Makinde.

The first session, facilitated by Pst. Sola Adesokan, is focused on understanding Intimate Partner Violence (IPV), including physical, sexual, psychological, and economic abuse. She discussed the role of power imbalance in intimate relationships and emphasized the importance of premarital and marital counselling within churches. The session highlighted that marital counselling should be grounded in biblical principles of love, respect, and faithfulness, while clearly condemning violence and promoting correct interpretation of scripture.

The panel session brought together Mr. Bayonle, Mrs. Deborah Dahunsi representing PFN Oyo State, Mrs. Adedoyin Ayelabola, YcDEI Champion, and Mrs. Agein from the Oyo State Ministry of Women Affairs. Discussions addressed stigmatization, the silencing of women, misinterpretation of scriptures, abuse of power within faith settings, and the urgent need to create safe spaces in churches. Panelists and participants stressed that ministers must be the first to speak out against GBV, while women should be supported to speak up and report abuse through appropriate channels.

Participants further recommended that GBV education be translated into local languages, integrated into Sunday School and premarital counselling, and introduced to children at an early age. Questions raised during the interactive session touched on accountability in marriage, leadership responsibility, and the need for compassion rather than judgment in addressing sensitive issues.

The Town Hall Meeting concluded with commitments from faith leaders to take the conversations back to their congregations and continue partnering with YcDEI to sustain GBV prevention efforts. The meeting reinforced the important role of faith leaders in reshaping attitudes, promoting accountability, and fostering safe and compassionate communities.