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By Lukman Olabiyi
The Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency (DSVA) has reported a troubling surge in domestic and sexual violence cases over a 10-month period from September 2023 to July 2024.
The report, released by the DSVA, an arm of the Lagos State Ministry of Justice, highlighted a dramatic increase in such cases.
Since its establishment in September 2021, the DSVA has transitioned from being the Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Response Team to a more dedicated agency focused on combating violence against women and children.
In the period under review, the DSVA recorded a total of 6,456 cases, encompassing domestic violence, sexual assault, child neglect, and other forms of non-gender-based violence (GBV).
The cases were reported through both physical and virtual channels, underscoring the agency’s accessible support services.
The statistics revealed that out of the total cases, 3,925 involved adults, predominantly women, while 2,531 involved children. Notably, 90.4% of adult survivors were women, and 46% of child survivors were girls.
Domestic violence was the most prevalent form of abuse reported among adults, accounting for 73% of the cases, with rape comprising 3.5%. For children, emotional abuse was the most common, representing 76.7% of cases, followed by physical violence at 5.4%.
The report detailed specific figures, including 2,868 cases of domestic violence, 93 cases of rape, 138 cases of attempted rape or sexual assault, and 113 cases of sexual assault by penetration or threat. Other reported incidents included cases related to separation, divorce, neglect, and revenge porn.
Titilola Vivour-Adeniyi, Executive Secretary of the DSVA, emphasized the agency’s dedication to providing comprehensive care and support for survivors.
This includes medical, legal, psychosocial, and empowerment services, along with rescue operations and access to justice.
Vivour-Adeniyi highlighted the collaborative efforts with government departments, partner organizations, gender experts, law enforcement, NGOs, mental health professionals, social services, healthcare providers, and the legal system, all aimed at addressing and reducing domestic and sexual violence in Lagos State.
“The Lagos State government is unwavering in its commitment to protecting vulnerable populations and ensuring a safe environment for all residents,” she said.
