By Ayomide Otitoju
At a recent event focused on femicide and its societal impact, Mrs. Aramide Awosanya, General Manager of Business Development at Lotus Bank, represented the bank’s CEO, Mrs. Kafilat Ayodeji Arawi. Speaking on the topic “The Role of Culture and Societal Expectations in Addressing Femicide”, Mrs. Awosanya emphasized the need to tackle violence against women by addressing its root causes, starting with early upbringing at home.
Mrs. Awosanya highlighted how societal attitudes toward gender roles often take shape in childhood, where unchecked sibling rivalry and preferential treatment of boys can lead to harmful behaviors in adulthood. “The way we raise our sons and daughters determines how they view and treat women in society,” she explained. “Discipline, mentorship, and correction must start at home to prevent domestic violence and femicide.”
Referencing Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage, she noted that societal expectations must evolve to foster gender equality and mutual respect. “When women are emotionally or physically destroyed, it disrupts families and cultural traditions, as well as economic activities that rely on women’s contributions,” she said, citing examples such as the Argungu Fishing Festival and the New Yam Festival.
Mrs. Awosanya urged women to break their silence on domestic violence, describing it as a crucial step in combating femicide. “When women remain silent, they indirectly enable the cycle of violence,” she stated. She called on parents to instill discipline and correct harmful behaviors early, stressing that a healthier society begins at home.
Discussing the banking sector’s role, Mrs. Awosanya reiterated Lotus Bank’s commitment to gender equality and ethical values. She emphasized the bank’s support for initiatives that empower women and raise awareness on the dangers of domestic violence. “We encourage other financial institutions to join us in amplifying this message and fostering change.”
Commending the event’s organizers for creating a platform to address femicide, Mrs. Awosanya called for sustained collaboration across sectors to break the cycle of silence, protect women, and build a more equitable and inclusive society.
