The Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency (DSVA), in collaboration with the Directorate of Public Prosecutions (DPP) of the state Ministry of Justice, has trained legal practitioners on effective prosecution of Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV) cases to improve victims’ access to justice.

The one-day capacity-building workshop, held on October 28, 2026, focused on addressing practical challenges in prosecuting SGBV cases, strengthening professional competence and promoting a justice system that protects victims’ dignity while upholding fairness, due process and the rights of all parties.

In her welcome address, the Executive Secretary of the DSVA, Mrs Titilola Vivour-Adeniyi, stressed the importance of equipping legal practitioners with the knowledge and practical skills needed to handle SGBV cases effectively.

She emphasised the need for diligent prosecution, proper case preparation and a survivor-centred approach that ensures victims are treated with dignity and respect throughout the justice process.

Vivour-Adeniyi noted that effective prosecution was critical to securing justice for victims and holding perpetrators accountable.

She added that collaboration among justice-sector stakeholders was essential to strengthening Lagos State’s response to domestic and sexual violence.

In a goodwill message, Permanent Secretary of the Lagos State Ministry of Justice, Mr Adebayo Harun, represented by the Director of Public Prosecutions, Mrs Adebanke Ogunrode, underscored the importance of professionalism, accountability and adherence to prosecutorial standards in handling SGBV cases.

He urged participants to apply the knowledge gained from the workshop to improve case management, evidence presentation and courtroom practice.

He also highlighted the need for effective coordination between the DPP’s office and private legal practitioners assigned to prosecute cases, noting that closer collaboration would improve prosecution outcomes and victims’ access to justice.

The training featured a session on trauma-informed care and counselling in SGBV cases, facilitated by the Executive Director of the Centre for Women’s Health and Information, Mrs Atinuke Odukoya.

The session examined the effects of trauma on victims, the importance of sensitive communication, ways to prevent re-traumatisation and appropriate referrals for psychosocial support.

Justice Rahman Oshodi of the Special Offences Court, High Court of Lagos State, led another session on judicial expectations in SGBV prosecutions.

Discussions, however, centred on evidentiary requirements, witness testimony, effective presentation of evidence, courtroom conduct and common challenges encountered during prosecution.

Harun also led a session on the role of the Directorate of Public Prosecutions in SGBV cases, highlighting the importance of case management, professional accountability, communication and coordination between the DPP and private legal practitioners handling such cases.

The workshop highlighted the need to combine sound legal knowledge with professionalism, diligence and sensitivity to survivors’ experiences.

It also reinforced the importance of stronger collaboration among the DSVA, the Ministry of Justice and legal practitioners in promoting accountability and a more coordinated response to SGBV cases.

The DSVA reaffirmed its commitment to improving access to justice and supporting a responsive, victim-centred justice system that treats victims with dignity and respect while strengthening the prosecution of domestic and sexual violence cases across Lagos State.