*Push for survivor-centred justice
From Taiye Joseph, Ilorin.
Ilorin witnessed a strong show of commitment to ending gender-based violence (GBV), as civil society groups, judiciary officers, healthcare workers, and security agencies gathered at the Ministry of Justice for a multi-sectoral meeting on GBV prevention, survivor-centred care, and case management.
The session, jointly organised by the Kwara State Ministry of Social Development and Global Hope for Women and Children Foundation (GLOHWOC), with UNICEF support, emphasised collaboration as the only way to strengthen justice delivery and protect survivors.
Related News
Declaring the meeting open, the Commissioner for Social Development, Dr. Maryam Imam, described the gathering as “a coalition of conscience.”
She said: “Gender-Based Violence is not merely a private issue—it is a violation of human rights, a barrier to development, and a direct threat to peace and security in our communities. Today’s engagement reminds us that addressing GBV requires active collaboration across all sectors.”
CEO of GLOHWOC, Dr. Christina Abayomi-Oluwole, praised stakeholders for securing convictions in GBV cases but pointed to a major gap in survivor support.
“The unavailability of survivor funds remains a serious setback. Justice is not served until the survivor’s dignity is preserved, and data is the bridge that connects cases to accountability,” she stressed.
She announced plans for a follow-up seminar specifically for judges and magistrates to deepen judicial response.
The Director of Public Prosecution, Mr. Idowu Akande, walked participants through provisions of the Administration of Criminal Justice Law (ACJL) 2015, especially on handling evidence.
He charged security agencies to improve on digital documentation of cases. “Electronic evidence—whether audio or video—must be clear, properly introduced, and admissible. NGOs can support this process by providing gadgets that will strengthen investigations and aid convictions,” he explained.
On her part, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Justice, Mrs. S. K. Grillo, said the meeting aligns with constitutional obligations under Section 33, while the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Social Development, Pastor Ayanwale Peter, commended the Justice Ministry for creating space for such collaboration.
Participants broke into groups for practical sessions on case tracking, reviewing sample GBV files, and identifying data gaps that could weaken prosecutions. Their findings highlighted the urgent need for accurate, survivor-centred documentation.
Closing the event, Director of Social Development, Mr. James Kayode, thanked stakeholders and urged them to translate discussions into stronger actions for survivors.
The meeting ended with renewed commitment from all sectors to ensure GBV survivors in Kwara are not only heard but also supported with dignity, justice, and care.
