Lagos State has taken a huge step to combat domestic and sexual violence with the introduction of two innovative tools by the Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency (DSVA).
The tech-driven tools aim to enhance access to support services for survivors as well as a platform to report domestic and sexual violence cases.
According to Titilola Vivour-Adeniyi, Executive Secretary of Lagos DSVA, these initiatives reaffirm Lagos State’s commitment to breaking the culture of silence, supporting survivors, and ensuring perpetrator accountability.
The first initiative, a WhatsApp-based AI chatbot named Ask INU (I Need You), is designed to provide immediate information and referrals for survivors and mandated reporters. By sending a message to 0812 893 7058 on WhatsApp, users can access confidential and timely details on available support services. This tool aims to empower survivors with critical knowledge and resources at their disposal.
Additionally, DSVA launched a Self-Reporting Tool via the Domestic and Sexual Violence Case Management System (DSVCMS).
By visiting lagosdsvcsm.org and clicking on the “Report” tab, survivors and mandated reporters can securely submit key case details. The platform also allows users to upload crucial evidence, including pictures, audio, video recordings, and medical reports.
The DSVCMS self-reporting tool seeks to address this challenge by providing a secure digital storage and retrieval system for evidence when survivors are ready to pursue justice.
Explaining the motivation behind the tools, the Lagos DSVA noted that approximately 60% of survivors of domestic and sexual violence who originally possess critical evidence—such as pictorial, documentary, or audio proof of abuse—either misplace it, delete it accidentally or voluntarily, or have their devices destroyed by their abusive partners.
By strengthening evidence collection and preservation, this initiative plays a vital role in building robust cases, facilitating swift and effective prosecutions, and ultimately delivering justice to survivors in Lagos State.