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Summary
The Lagos State DSVA has launched two tech-driven solutions called Ask INU, and the Domestic and Sexual Violence Case Management System (DSVCMS) to enhance survivor support, evidence preservation, and justice delivery.
The Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency (DSVA) has introduced groundbreaking technological solutions aimed at improving access to support services for survivors of domestic and sexual violence, as well as mandated reporters. These innovations reinforce the state’s commitment to tackling gender-based violence and ensuring justice for victims.
The first initiative, Ask INU (I Need You), is a WhatsApp-based AI chatbot designed to provide confidential information and referrals. Users can discreetly access accurate details about available support services by sending a message to 0812 893 7058 on WhatsApp. This tool ensures that survivors and those assisting them are empowered with critical knowledge of the resources at their disposal.
The second innovation, the Domestic and Sexual Violence Case Management System (DSVCMS), is a secure self-reporting platform where survivors and mandated reporters can submit case details and upload crucial evidence, including pictures, audio or video recordings, and medical reports. This initiative is particularly significant, considering that over 60% of survivors lose vital evidence, either accidentally or due to deliberate destruction by their abusers. By visiting the Lagos DSVA website, users can securely store and retrieve their evidence when seeking justice.
A major challenge in prosecuting domestic and sexual violence cases has been the loss of critical evidence. According to Adejoke Ladenegan-Oginni, Head of the Public Affairs Unit at DSVA, many survivors who initially had pictorial, documentary or audio evidence of abuse either misplaced it, voluntarily deleted it, or had their devices destroyed by their abusive partners.
“With this portal, survivors can securely store and retrieve their evidence when investigations begin or whenever they decide to seek justice,” Adejoke stated.
She emphasised that improved evidence collection and preservation would play a crucial role in building survivors’ cases and strengthening prosecution efforts in Lagos State.
Speaking on the initiatives, Titilola Vivour-Adeniyi, Executive Secretary of Lagos DSVA, reaffirmed the agency’s dedication to breaking the culture of silence, supporting survivors, and ensuring perpetrator accountability.
“With these innovations, Lagos State continues to lead in the fight against domestic and sexual violence by ensuring survivors receive the support and justice they deserve while actively working to prevent future occurrences and reduce such incidents to the barest minimum,” Vivour-Adeniyi said.
As Lagos DSVA pioneers digital solutions to combat gender-based violence, the state remains at the forefront of ensuring survivor safety, justice, and long-term prevention efforts.
