The Lagos State government has revealed deeply troubling statistics regarding child abuse, sexual, and emotional abuse within the state. According to Ms. Titilayo Shitta-Bey, the Permanent Secretary and Solicitor-General, at least 2,588 children suffered from sexual and emotional abuse between August 2022 and July 2023.
These shocking numbers were disclosed during a media briefing held to kick off the 2023 Domestic and Sexual Violence Awareness Month, which carries the theme ‘Not in my Lagos.’ The data underscores the urgency of addressing domestic violence and child abuse in the state.
Shitta-Bey also noted that 40% of the affected children had undergone counseling programs to help them cope with the traumatic events they experienced, aiming to prevent long-term negative psychological impacts.
The statistics from August 1, 2022, to July 31, 2023, are stark:
- The Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency handled 5,624 cases, categorized as adults and children.
- Among adult survivors, 91% were female, and 9% were male.
- Among child survivors, 45% were boys, and 55% were girls.
- The agency also provided services to 7 Persons with Disabilities who were experiencing various forms of Gender-Based Violence.
- The youngest victim of sexual violence was an 18-month-old baby, while the oldest client who experienced domestic violence was a 79-year-old woman.
These statistics highlight the urgent need for comprehensive efforts to prevent child abuse, sexual violence, and domestic violence in Lagos State, and to provide support for survivors. The government’s awareness month aims to shed light on these issues and encourage collective action to address them.