ABEOKUTA – In a significant move to bolster the fight against gender-based violence, the Ogun State Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Hon. Motunrayo Adijat Adeleye, has called for enhanced collaboration and institutional reforms within the State Police Command.
The Commissioner made the appeal during a courtesy visit to the State Commissioner of Police, CP Lanre Ogunlowo, at the Police Command Headquarters in Eleweran, Abeokuta, on Tuesday.
Adeleye highlighted the critical role of the police in ensuring justice and protection for victims but pointed out significant gaps that hinder progress. She revealed that traumatised victims are sometimes asked to bear the cost of investigations, transportation to court, or other related expenses.
“In some unfortunate instances, out-of-court settlements were allegedly encouraged, thereby denying victims the justice and equity they deserve. These are gaps that require our collective attention and deliberate reform,” Adeleye stated.
She urged the police leadership to address these issues with renewed compassion and professionalism, emphasising that collective action is needed to make abuse “not only punishable but preventable.”
To streamline the justice process, the Commissioner disclosed that her Ministry is advocating for the establishment of special designated courts across all judicial divisions to handle gender-based violence cases exclusively, aiming to reduce delays.
Among other interventions, Adeleye highlighted the Ministry’s network of Sexual Assault Referral Centres (SARCs) and Women Development Centres, which provide medical care, rehabilitation, and empowerment for survivors. She also called for the creation of dedicated Family Support Units (FSUs) in all police divisions across the state to handle domestic and sexual violence cases promptly.
In his response, CP Lanre Ogunlowo commended Adeleye’s passion and commitment, assuring her of the Command’s full support. He declared a zero-tolerance stance towards indiscipline and corrupt practices within the force.
“The protection of women and children is not a matter of choice, it is a mandatory duty. We will strengthen due process, ensure justice, and work closely with your Ministry to achieve our shared goals,” CP Ogunlowo said.
He announced that henceforth, all gender-related cases would be handled directly by the State Command Headquarters to ensure diligence. He also pledged improved specialised training for officers to enhance their professionalism in managing Gender-Based Violence (GBV) incidents.
Echoing the CP’s sentiments, the Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of Finance and Administration, DCP Serah Ehindero, emphasised the need for intensified public enlightenment on parental responsibility to prevent abuse stemming from ignorance and negligence.
