Lagos Records 4,860 Domestic Violence Cases in One Year

The Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency (DSVA) recorded 4,860 cases of domestic violence, involving children and adults, in the last one year, it has been learnt.

Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice Moyosore Onigbanjo stated this yesterday when he addressed a news conference to mark the 2022 domestic and sexual violence awareness month, celebrated every September.

According to Onigbanjo, Alimosho local government area recorded the highest number of cases, followed by Ikorodu, Kosofe, Eti-Osa, Oshodi-Isolo and Ifako-Ijaiye.

Of the 4,860 cases, 2,029 are domestic violence, 65 rape, 40 sexual assault, 10 attempted rape, five sexual assault by penetration, and 73 threat to life. Others were 113 child abuse and physical assault, 194 defilement cases, 15 defilement/molestation by minor to minor, 105 child labour, 145 sexual harassment and 488 cases relating to separation, neglect, and child custody. 150 court convictions were also secured with five deaths recorded.

Onigbanjo added that 1,578 children experienced emotional abuse because of domestic violence while the agency was able to organise counseling programs for the children to deal with the psychological effects.

This year’s awareness is themed ‘It’s on Us’, and as part of activities to commemorate the month, Onigbanjo said the agency will embark on a ‘Turn Alausa Purple Advocacy Walk’ against domestic and sexual violence. He added that public servants will be encouraged to wear a touch of purple in solidarity with the agency.

Other activities include market fiesta, symposium on tales of survivors of domestic violence, safeguarding and child protection day, and DSVA awards/commendation night.