The Lagos State Government says no fewer than 4,035 domestic violence cases were recorded in the last one year, adding that they ranged from rape, child abuse, sexual assault and sexual abuse to defilement, divorce and other matrimonial issues.
The government, which vowed not to shy away from prosecuting perpetrators of domestic crimes, added that the Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Response Team (DSVRT), had been at the forefront of the war against domestic violence in the state.
The Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Adeniji Kazeem, on Tuesday in Ikeja at a news conference on the activities of the DSVRT in the last one year, added that the agency handled 192 domestic abuse cases.
Kazeem explained that out of the 192 cases handled by the DSVRT, 89 were domestic assault cases, 62 were defilement cases, 18 were rape cases, six attempted rape, 10 child neglect and seven child abuse cases.
He added that 92 cases were presently being heard in court.
Kazeem said, “The Lagos State Government under the administration of Governor Akinwunmi Ambode has zero tolerance for issues relating to domestic violence and child abuse and will not relent until the scourge is reduced to the barest minimum.
“Agencies of government, including DSVRT, Office of Public Defender and the Directorate of the Public Prosecutions, have been mandated to ensure that while perpetrators of the acts are brought to justice, victims of domestic violence are rehabilitated.
“As regards provision of shelter for victims, the Ministries of Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation and Youth and Social Development, as well as non-governmental organisations have been playing key roles in ensuring that victims are taken to a safe environment.
“All the victims of sexual assault received medical attention from the Mirabel Centre and public hospitals.”
The commissioner assured residents that the government would step up its campaign against domestic violence.
“As a matter of fact, the DSVRT will hold a free clinic for victims by Friday and we urge victims of domestic violence to call 08137960048 for professional counseling and immediate action from the government,” the commissioner added.