Lagos records 8,692 cases of sexual, Gender-Based Violence in one year

By Adeola Ogunrinde –

The Lagos State Government has revealed that 8,692 cases of Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV) were reported in the state between August 2024 and July 2025. The Ministry of Justice said measures are being taken to restore hope and confidence in survivors and help them overcome trauma.

Speaking at a press briefing on Friday to mark the Domestic and Sexual Violence Awareness Month in September, Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Lawal Pedro (SAN), noted that 90 percent of survivors reported low self-esteem, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and extreme fear, while about 5 percent suffered depression and sought medical help.

Pedro, represented by the Solicitor General and Permanent Secretary, Mr. Ahmid Oyenuga, said this year’s awareness theme, “SGBV? … It concerns us all,” was chosen to emphasize that SGBV affects people of all ages. For the first time, private sector stakeholders will be included in the campaign. He also disclosed that guidelines on preventing sexual harassment in the workplace will soon be launched.

According to him, the Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency (DSVA) received an average of 400 cases monthly, with domestic violence being the most prevalent category at 3,685 cases. Other incidents included 243 cases of defilement, 244 cases of child abuse or physical assault, 99 cases of rape, 48 cases of sexual harassment, and 25 cases of sexual assault by penetration.

The commissioner added that the agency carried out 402 preliminary investigations and rescue missions for survivors within the period. Fifty-seven child safeguarding and protection concerns were also recorded by the Lagos State Taskforce on Safeguarding and Child Protection, which includes representatives from the Ministries of Education, Health, and Youth, alongside NGOs.

Pedro highlighted that the five LGAs with the highest reporting rates among adults were Alimosho, Eti-Osa, Ikorodu, Kosofe, and Oshodi-Isolo, while child-related cases were highest in Ikorodu, Kosofe, Badagry, Alimosho, and Oshodi-Isolo. He revealed that 3,090 children were identified as victims of emotional abuse linked to exposure to domestic violence. Survivors ranged from 18 months to 79 years, underscoring that SGBV cuts across all age groups.

On legal support, the Attorney General disclosed that 146 survivors received free legal aid through in-house lawyers, the Bureau of Public Defender, private law firms, and the Lagos Public Interest Law Partnership. Survivors were also provided healthcare at general and primary health centres as well as referral facilities such as Mirabel Centre, WARIF, and Idera Centre.

Pedro further explained that 30 survivors were given shelter at Eko Haven and other safe homes, while 1,489 survivors, including children, received psychotherapy and psychosocial support. In addition, 249 abusers underwent therapy, reflecting growing awareness about mental wellness and the importance of psychosocial wellbeing for a healthier society.