Between August 2024 and July 2025, Lagos State documented 8,692 cases of domestic and sexual violence, according to the Lagos State Government. The Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Lawal Pedro (SAN), disclosed this statistic at a media briefing held at Alausa, Ikeja, on Friday, marking the commencement of the 2025 Domestic and Sexual Violence Awareness Month.

Domestic violence emerged as the most prevalent issue, accounting for 3,685 cases. Other reported incidents included 243 cases of defilement, 244 cases of child abuse and physical assault, 99 cases of rape, 48 cases of sexual harassment, and 25 cases of sexual assault by penetration. Additionally, there were 726 family-related disputes, 41 cases of cyber harassment, and 32 cases of threats to life.

The age range of survivors spanned from 18 months to 79 years, highlighting that abuse affects individuals across all age groups. Notably, 30% of female victims were pregnant at the time of abuse. The state recorded over 140 convictions and issued six restraining orders during this period.

In response, the Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency (DSVA) provided comprehensive support to survivors. This included free legal representation for 146 survivors, medical care for all sexual assault victims, shelter for 30 individuals, and therapy for 1,487 survivors and 249 perpetrators. Furthermore, 13 persons with disabilities received specialized support. The agency also conducted 402 rescue operations and funded police investigations into 368 cases to ensure swift prosecution.

The Lagos State Government remains committed to a zero-tolerance policy towards sexual and gender-based violence, emphasizing the importance of timely reporting and support for victims.