In a significant move to combat Social and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV) in Lagos, the Women’s Rights and Health Project (WRAHP) has partnered with the Rule of Law and Anti-Corruption (RoLAC).
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that this collaboration aims to raise awareness among law enforcement officers and key stakeholders.
It seeks to ensure a more effective and coordinated response to SGBV cases across Lagos State.
The consultative meeting, held on Wednesday, brought together legal aid officers, law enforcement personnel, and other key stakeholders.
Its primary goal was to strengthen justice responses and improve interventions for SGBV survivors.
Atinuke Odukoya, Executive Director of the Centre for Women’s Health and Information (CEWHIN), highlighted inconsistencies in police handling of SGBV cases. She noted that responses depend on the officers involved.
“Lagos State has Family Support Units, meaning some officers are trained to handle SGBV cases.
“However, many officers lack the necessary awareness and expertise,” Odukoya explained.
She stressed that this knowledge gap exposes flaws in police training. Without proper education, many officers fail to provide adequate support or justice for SGBV survivors.
“The meeting was part of WRAHP’s project, Scaling up Access to Justice-Related Social Services for Women and Girls Survivors of SGBV in Lagos and Edo States.
“This initiative seeks to improve legal and social services for survivors. It also focuses on strengthening coordination between stakeholders to ensure a more effective justice system.
“By enhancing these services, WRAHP aims to build a system that supports SGBV survivors. Timely interventions and legal redress are crucial for their protection and recovery,” she said.
Similarly, Bose Ironsi, Executive Director of WRAHP, reaffirmed the organisation’s commitment.
“This initiative strengthens the justice system’s response to SGBV, ensuring survivors receive necessary legal and emotional support,” she stated.
She added that WRAHP remains focused on securing justice for survivors. Providing timely social, legal, and psychological support is essential in helping them rebuild their lives.
Also, Segun Babalola, WRAHP Programme Officer, emphasised the role of law enforcement.
“Police must be proactive in investigating and prosecuting SGBV cases to ensure justice,” he said.
He noted that officers are often the first point of contact for survivors. Their approach can determine whether survivors receive justice or face additional trauma.
Babalola explained that the meeting aimed to improve police engagement.
“Survivors must be treated with dignity at police stations and not retraumatised by insensitive responses,” he emphasised
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