The Lagos State Government has revealed that between August 2024 and July 2025, a total of 8,692 cases of domestic and sexual violence were reported across the state.

Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Lawal Pedro (SAN), disclosed this on Friday during a press briefing to kick off activities marking the 2025 Domestic and Sexual Violence Awareness Month. He stressed that the alarming figures reflect the government’s zero-tolerance stance against sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV).

Breaking Down the Numbers

Domestic violence: 3,685 cases (the highest reported)

Defilement: 243 cases

Child abuse/physical assault: 244 cases

Rape: 99 cases

Sexual harassment: 48 cases

Sexual assault by penetration: 25 cases

Family-related disputes: 726 cases

Cyber harassment: 41 cases

Threats to life: 32 cases

Pedro noted that the state also secured over 140 convictions and obtained six restraining orders within the year.

Support for Survivors

The report highlighted that:

3,090 children exposed to domestic violence received counselling.

Survivors of sexual assault accessed free medical care.

146 survivors received free legal representation.

30 survivors were accommodated in government shelters.

1,487 survivors and 249 perpetrators underwent therapy.

13 persons with disabilities were given specialised support.

Areas Most Affected

Local government breakdown showed that Alimosho, Eti-Osa, Ikorodu, Kosofe, and Oshodi-Isolo recorded the highest adult-related cases, while Ikorodu, Kosofe, Badagry, Alimosho, and Oshodi-Isolo topped child-related incidents.

Awareness Month

Pedro reminded Lagosians that since 2015, September has been dedicated to raising awareness about SGBV. This year’s theme is: “SGBV… It Concerns Us All.”

Activities lined up include:

Wearing purple ribbons by public servants (from Sept 1).

An advocacy walk against SGBV.

A market fiesta to challenge stereotypes and gender roles.

A Survivor’s Day to honour victims.

The Governor’s Commendation and Awards Night to recognise champions of the fight against SGBV.

Pedro reassured that the state would continue to prioritise justice, rehabilitation, and awareness, ensuring that victims get the support they deserve.