The Lagos State Government has revealed that a total of 8,692 cases of domestic and sexual violence were reported between August 2024 and July 2025, with domestic violence making up the largest share.
The Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Lawal Pedro, SAN, disclosed the figures on Friday during a press briefing to kick off the 2025 Domestic and Sexual Violence Awareness Month. Represented by the Permanent Secretary, Mr Olanrewaju Oyenuga, Pedro said the statistics reflect the state’s unwavering commitment to a zero-tolerance policy for sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV).
Breakdown of Reported Cases
Of the 8,692 cases, 3,685 were domestic violence incidents, followed by:
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243 cases of defilement
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244 cases of child abuse/physical assault
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99 cases of rape
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48 cases of sexual harassment
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25 cases of sexual assault by penetration
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726 family-related disputes
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41 cyber harassment cases
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32 cases of threats to life
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Support and Legal Action
Pedro said the state secured over 140 convictions and obtained six restraining orders during the period under review. He also revealed that:
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146 survivors received free legal representation
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All survivors of sexual assault were given free medical care
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30 were accommodated in state-run shelters
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3,090 children exposed to domestic violence received counselling
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1,487 survivors and 249 perpetrators underwent therapy
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13 persons with disabilities were provided with specialised support
The ages of victims ranged from 18 months to 79 years, underscoring the wide demographic impact of SGBV.
Local Government Hotspots
Alimosho, Eti-Osa, Ikorodu, Kosofe, and Oshodi-Isolo recorded the highest number of adult-related cases, while the leading LGAs for child-related cases were Ikorodu, Kosofe, Badagry, Alimosho, and Oshodi-Isolo.
Awareness Month Activities
Since 2015, the Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency has dedicated the month of September to increasing awareness of SGBV. This year’s theme is “SGBV… It Concerns Us All.”
Planned events include:
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Public servants wearing purple ribbons from September 1 as a show of solidarity
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An advocacy walk against SGBV
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A market fiesta to raise awareness on gender roles and stereotypes
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Survivor’s Day to honour victims
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The Governor’s Commendation and Awards Night to recognise key individuals and organisations championing the fight against SGBV
Pedro reiterated that the Lagos State Government remains committed to strengthening institutions and support systems to eradicate SGBV in all its forms.
