Renowned media practitioner, public relations expert, and host of the YouTube podcast “Adeola Ekine” Dr. (Mrs.) Adeola Ekine, has called for increased awareness and collective action against domestic violence, emphasizing that abuse thrives in silence and that speaking up can save lives.
In her YouTube podcast episode, titled “Domestic Violence Thrives in Silence: Speak Up If You Suspect Abuse or Need Support,” Dr. Ekine addresses one of society’s most pressing social challenges. She highlights the devastating impact of domestic violence on individuals, families, and communities, while encouraging victims and witnesses to break the silence and seek timely intervention.
The immediate past chairperson of the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists,NAWOJ in Lagos State declared that domestic violence is not limited to physical assault.
” It also includes emotional, psychological, verbal, sexual, and financial abuse, all of which can leave lasting scars on victims.”
She noted that many survivors endure years of suffering because of fear, shame, financial dependence, concern for their children, or the stigma associated with reporting abuse.
“Silence protects the abuser, not the victim. Every person deserves to live in safety, dignity, and peace. Speaking up is not an act of betrayal, it is an act of courage and self-preservation,” Dr. Ekine said during the podcast.
She stressed that domestic violence affects people of all ages, backgrounds, religions, and socioeconomic groups. While women and children are disproportionately affected, men can also experience abuse and deserve access to support without fear of ridicule or disbelief.
The podcast urges family members, friends, neighbours, colleagues, religious leaders, and community members to pay attention to warning signs such as unexplained injuries, sudden withdrawal from social activities, persistent fear, controlling behaviour by a partner, repeated excuses for injuries, and noticeable emotional distress. Dr. Ekine emphasized that ignoring these signs can have tragic consequences.
She encouraged victims to confide in trusted family members, friends, counsellors, healthcare professionals, faith leaders, or appropriate authorities. She also appealed to communities to create safe environments where survivors are believed, protected, and supported rather than blamed or shamed.
Dr. Ekine further called on government institutions, civil society organisations, law enforcement agencies, educational institutions, healthcare providers, and the media to strengthen efforts aimed at preventing domestic violence through public education, accessible support services, effective enforcement of existing laws, and sustained advocacy.
She underscored the importance of teaching young people about healthy relationships built on mutual respect, trust, communication, and non-violence, noting that prevention begins with education and positive family values.
The episode concludes with a compelling message; “No one deserves to live in fear. Abuse is never a sign of love. If you are experiencing violence or suspect someone is being abused, speak up. Your voice could save a life. Together, we can break the cycle of violence and build homes where love, respect, and safety prevail.”
Dr. Adeola Ekine continues to use her platform to raise awareness on critical social issues, promote informed conversations, and inspire positive change across families and communities.