The Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency (DSVA) has reaffirmed the importance of consent within marriage, stressing that a wedding ring does not confer automatic or unquestioned access to a partner’s body.
In a statement posted on its official X (formerly Twitter) handle, the agency emphasized that marital intimacy must be based on mutual agreement, not seen as an obligation or duty imposed by virtue of marriage.
“Consent doesn’t stop at the wedding altar,” the agency stated. “In a healthy marriage, intimacy is a shared choice, not an obligation. Respecting your partner’s ‘yes’ or ‘no’ builds trust, love, and safety.”
The DSVA also clarified that consent in marriage must be clear, enthusiastic, and informed, noting that silence or reluctance does not equate to consent.
“For your information: silence is NO, reluctance is NO,” the agency added.
To guide understanding, the agency referenced the F.R.I.E.S principle of consent, which stands for:
Freely given
Reversible
Informed
Enthusiastic
Specific
The agency’s message is part of its ongoing public education efforts to combat domestic and sexual violence in the state, and promote healthier, respectful relationships.
The post “Consent Doesn’t Stop At The Wedding Altar” — Lagos DSVA Says Marriage Certificate Not License For Sexual Access From Searchng.NG abijohn.com .