Lagos State government has revealed that between August 2024 and July 2025, 3,685 domestic violence cases were reported, making this the most prevalent among the 8,692 domestic and sexual violence cases reported within the period.

The state government also stated that six restraining orders were obtained, while over 140 convictions were secured, underscoring the state’s position on zero tolerance.

Speaking on Friday at a media briefing to announce the commencement of the domestic and sexual violence awareness month, the Commissioner for Justice, Lawal Pedro, stated that 243 defilement, 244 child abuse/physical assault, 99 rape, 48 sexual harassment, and 25 sexual assault by penetration were also reported.

Pedro, represented by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Justice, Mr Olanrewaju Oyenuga, also said that 726 family-related disputes, 41 cyber harassment, and 32 threats to life were reported.

According to him, 3,090 children exposed to domestic violence received counselling, with the youngest survivor being 18 months, while the oldest was 79 years, showing SGBV affects all age groups.

He added that 146 survivors accessed free legal representation, while all sexual assault survivors received free medical care, and 30 survivors were housed in shelters.

The commissioner further said that 1,487 survivors and 249 abusers received therapy, while 13 persons with disabilities were supported.

Pedro revealed that of the 20 local councils in Lagos, the top five with the highest reporting for adults include Alimosho, Eti-Osa, Ikorodu, Kosofe, and Oshodi-Isolo, while for cases involving children, the top five were Ikorodu, Kosofe, Badagry, Alimosho, and Oshodi-Isolo.

He said since 2015, the Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency has commemorated the domestic and sexual violence awareness month with various activities.

“The theme for this year is SGBV… It concerns us all.”

Pedro said activities will start on September 1, with public servants wearing purple ribbons, which will be followed by an advocacy walk against sexual and gender-based violence.

He added that there will be a market fiesta to educate people on gender and sex roles and how these social constructs encourage the perpetration of sexual and gender based violence.

The commissioner stated that there will be a survivor day to honour and celebrate the strength of survivors of sexual and gender based violence.

“To round off the month, the governor’s commendation and awards would be held to celebrate officers, institutions and individuals who have distinguished themselves in the fight against sexual and gender based violence.”