In a renewed call for stronger institutional collaboration toward ending all forms of gender-based violence in the State, the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Hon. Motunrayo Adijat Adeleye, has sought the support of the State Police Command of the Nigeria Police Force in ensuring justice, accountability, and protection for women and children across the State.
The Commissioner made the call during a courtesy visit to the State Commissioner of Police, CP Lanre Ogunlowo, at the State Police Command Headquarters, Eleweran, Abeokuta, describing the engagement as a crucial step toward strengthening the long-standing partnership between the Ministry and the Police in the fight against abuse, exploitation, and gender-based violence.
“Over the years, we have handled several cases of gender-based violence, child neglect, and abuse where police intervention was critical. While we have received commendable cooperation in many instances, there have also been cases where victims, already traumatized, were reportedly asked to bear the cost of investigations, transportation to court, or other related expenses. In some unfortunate instances, out-of-court settlements were allegedly encouraged, thereby denying victims the justice and equity they deserve. These are gaps that require our collective attention and deliberate reform”, Adeleye submitted
She therefore appealed to the Police Command to take proactive measures in addressing such gaps, urging the top echelon of the Force to rise to the call of defending the vulnerable with renewed compassion and professionalism. “We must strengthen our protection policies and strategies across all sectors. Together, we can make abuse not only punishable but preventable,” she said.
The Commissioner commended the State Judiciary for its steadfast cooperation in ensuring justice delivery and revealed that the Ministry had engaged judicial authorities to fast-track cases of child violation. She further disclosed ongoing advocacy for the establishment of designated courts in all judicial divisions to handle gender-based violence cases and reduce delays in justice administration.
Speaking on the Ministry’s interventions, Adeleye highlighted the establishment of Sexual Assault Referral Centres (SARCs) across the four zones of the State and Women Development Centres that offer rehabilitation and empowerment for survivors. She noted that the SARCs were designed to ease administrative bottlenecks, particularly in conducting medical examinations for victims, while commending the Ministry of Health and government-owned hospitals for their consistent support.
She further sought the establishment of Family Support Units (FSUs) in all Police Divisions across the State, explaining that such units would serve as dedicated desks for handling domestic and sexual violence cases promptly and professionally.
In his remarks, CP Lanre Ogunlowo commended Adeleye for her proactive approach to child protection and women’s welfare in the State, describing her as a “passionate public officer driven by genuine commitment.” He assured that the Command would intensify administrative diligence in handling cases related to gender-based violence and child protection, pledging continuous support through available logistics and manpower.
According to the Police Commissioner, “The Command has zero tolerance for indiscipline and any form of corrupt practices. The protection of women and children is not a matter of choice, it is a mandatory duty. We will strengthen due process, ensure justice, and work closely with your Ministry to achieve our shared goals.” He revealed that henceforth, all gender-related cases would be handled directly by the State Command Headquarters, while officers would undergo improved specialized training and orientation to enhance professionalism and accurate data management on GBV incidents.
Also speaking, the Deputy Commissioner of Police, Finance and Administration, DCP Serah Ehindero, reaffirmed the zero tolerance of the Command for child and gender violations, calling for intensified public enlightenment on parental responsibility. She noted that many forms of abuse often stem from ignorance or negligence and urged continuous sensitization to prevent violations before they occur.
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