The Lagos State Government has voiced profound concern over the increased prevalence of domestic and sexual violence in homes, despite ongoing measures to combat the problem.
This comes as the state declared the start of the 2025 Domestic and Sexual Violence Awareness Month on September 1 under the topic “Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV): It Concerns Us All.”
Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice Lawal Pedro, SAN, was joined by the Solicitor-General and Permanent Secretary, Olanrewaju Oyenuga, and the Executive Secretary of the Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency (DSVA), Mrs Titilola Vivour-Adeniyi, at a media briefing in Alausa, Ikeja.
Pedro reported that between August 2024 and July 2025, the DSVA received 8,692 cases—an average of nearly 400 each month—with domestic violence topping the list with 3,685 incidences. Other incidents included 243 defilements, 244 child abuse/assaults, 99 rapes, 48 sexual harassment cases, and 25 sexual assaults via penetration.
The state also registered 726 family disputes, 41 incidences of electronic harassment, and 32 threats to life. The survivors ranged in age from 18 months to 79 years, demonstrating that no group is immune.
Pedro reported that 90% of survivors suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, or depression, while at least 10% of identified perpetrators have been diagnosed with mental health issues.
“These statistics reveal SGBV as a silent epidemic eroding community well-being. This is no longer just about prosecution—it is about rescuing lives, healing trauma, and breaking cycles of violence. Lagos will not relent until survivors are fully supported and perpetrators are held accountable,” he said.
During the evaluation period, 146 survivors received free legal representation, all sexual assault survivors received free medical care, 30 were given refuge, and 402 rescue operations were conducted.
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In addition, 1,487 survivors and 249 abusers received therapy, while 13 people with disabilities received individualised assistance. The department obtained six restraining orders in court and more than 140 convictions, strengthening the state’s zero-tolerance policy.
The Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Trust Fund also offered assistance to 146 high-risk survivors, including housing, education, medical care, and business help. It also supported police investigations into 368 cases to ensure timely prosecution.
According to Pedro, the data dispels assumptions that SGBV only affects the poor or the unemployed.
Survivors include 44% employed, 33% self-employed, 11% students, 11% unemployed, and 1% retired.
Perpetrators included 45% employees, 38% self-employed, 8% jobless, 3% students, and 6% unknown.
“This shows that both perpetrators and survivors cut across every social and economic category,” he stressed.
The five LGAs with the most recorded adult cases were Alimosho, Eti-Osa, Ikorodu, Kosofe, and Oshodi-Isolo. In terms of child-related instances, Ikorodu, Kosofe, Badagry, Alimosho, and Oshodi-Isolo ranked first.
Vivour-Adeniyi stated that the Awareness Month will include symbolic purple lighting of landmarks, advocacy walks, marketplace campaigns, couple sensitisation, “Turn Obas Purple” to involve traditional rulers, motor park activities, and a conference on workplace sexual harassment.
A Safeguarding and Child Protection Week will feature debates engaging 1,200 students under the topic “It’s Okay to Tell.” The month will culminate with a Governor’s Commendation and Awards Night to celebrate frontline responders and stakeholders.
Pedro reaffirmed the government’s resolve: “SGBV is not only a crime; it drives trauma, depression, and broken communities. Lagos will continue to lead the fight with stronger laws, stronger systems of care, and stronger collaborations.”
Vivour-Adeniyi also stated that the DSVA is working with law enforcement, healthcare providers, NGOs, mental health professionals, and community leaders to strengthen reporting channels and survivor support systems.
“The Lagos State Government remains unwavering in its commitment to protect vulnerable populations and ensure a safe environment for all residents,” she said.
