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According to the Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Lawal Pedro, domestic violence made up the majority of the cases, with 3,685 incidents reported. Other reported cases included 243 defilement, 244 child abuse/physical assault, 99 rape, 48 sexual harassment, and 25 sexual assault by penetration.
Pedro, represented by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Justice, Mr. Olanrewaju Oyenuga, also revealed that the state obtained six restraining orders and secured over 140 convictions, showing its firm stance on zero tolerance for abuse.
He added that: 726 family-related disputes, 41 cyber harassment, and 32 threats to life were recorded,3,090 children exposed to domestic violence received counselling, with victims ranging from 18 months to 79 years old,146 survivors received free legal aid, all sexual assault survivors accessed free medical care, and 30 survivors were sheltered,1,487 survivors and 249 abusers went through therapy, while 13 persons with disabilities received support.
Pedro also highlighted that among the 20 local councils in Lagos, Alimosho, Eti Osa, Ikorodu, Kosofe, and Oshodi Isolo had the highest reports for adults, while Ikorodu, Kosofe, Badagry, Alimosho, and Oshodi Isolo topped the list for cases involving children.
As part of efforts to raise awareness, Lagos will mark Domestic and Sexual Violence Awareness Month in September. Activities will include: Wearing of purple ribbons by public servants ,An advocacy walk against sexual and gender-based violence ,A market fiesta to educate residents on gender roles and stereotypes, A Survivor’s Day to honor victims.
A governor’s commendation and awards ceremony to celebrate individuals and institutions fighting sexual and gender based violence.
Pedro emphasized that this year’s theme is: “SGBV… It Concerns Us All.”
