The Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency (DSVA) has reported that it now handles more than 450 domestic violence cases per month through its various reporting mechanisms. The revelation came from Titilola Vivour-Adeniyi, the Executive Secretary of the agency, during a stakeholder engagement and technical training event on the Lagos Emergency Responder Management System, held at the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Ikeja.
Organized by the Lagos State Command and Control Centre, the session aimed to improve emergency response coordination and minimize delays among relevant bodies. Vivour-Adeniyi noted that the agency receives between 400 and 450 fresh domestic violence reports monthly via its toll-free hotline, social media platforms, and other digital channels.
She stressed that these numbers likely represent only a fraction of the actual cases, as domestic and sexual violence remains one of the most under-reported crimes both locally and globally. “We recognize that we haven’t yet uncovered the full extent, because these offenses are consistently under-reported worldwide,” she stated. “Still, we are encouraged that more individuals are trusting the system and reaching out for help.”
According to her, growing public awareness has prompted more victims to come forward through emergency lines, agency offices, and online reporting tools. The DSVA operates a round-the-clock virtual referral and response network for gender-based violence cases, collaborating with emergency responders and the state’s Command and Control Centre. “The goal is to guarantee that anyone calling the 203 line can get critical services like emergency aid and psychosocial support at any hour,” she explained.
Vivour-Adeniyi highlighted that the agency was set up to coordinate responses to domestic and sexual violence throughout Lagos State, emphasizing that such violence encompasses more than physical harm. She pointed out that the state’s Protection Against Domestic Violence Law also covers emotional and verbal abuse as forms of domestic violence. “We keep spreading awareness and urging people not to suffer in silence,” she said. “Just because the abuse isn’t physical doesn’t mean it’s less damaging.”
The agency head also warned parents against hiding cases of child sexual abuse, noting that such concealment obstructs justice and is punishable by up to three years in prison under existing laws. She encouraged parents and guardians to utilize available support systems to ensure victims receive protection, care, and access to justice.