The Ogun State Technical Working Group has called on the state government to take immediate action against the surge in Gender-Based Violence (GBV). The group demands the establishment of a special court and a Trust Fund to address the growing crisis.
The group, including WARDC, AWDF, WOPEGEE, WAHPOD, AFED, and CEEGA, has spent over a year tackling GBV in Ogun. They reported a disturbing rise in incest, rape, and other forms of abuse. Dr. Mojisola Akinsanya, Executive Director of WOPEGEE, emphasized the need for a special court to handle GBV cases quickly and fairly, ensuring justice for survivors.
The group also urges the government to set aside 0.5% of its Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) to create a Trust Fund. This fund would support the implementation of the Violence Against Persons Prohibition (VAPP) law and provide vital services for survivors, including legal aid and healthcare.
“We need more funding. The current budget allocates only four percent to social protection,” said Dr. Akinsanya. She stressed that a stronger financial commitment is needed to combat GBV effectively.
Globally, one in three women faces violence in their lifetime. Ogun State is no exception, with underfunded programs failing to protect women and hold perpetrators accountable.
Dr. Akinsanya praised Governor Dapo Abiodun’s efforts, including Sexual Assault Referral Centres and women’s empowerment programs. However, she called for more decisive action and funding to make a real impact.
The group’s plea for a Trust Fund and special court is crucial in the fight against GBV. They urge the Ogun State Government to act now, ensuring that women and girls in the state are protected and supported.
The group also urged the Ogun State Government to allocate 0.5% of its Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) to create a Trust Fund for GBV cases. This fund would support the enforcement of the Violence Against Persons Prohibition (VAPP) law and fund vital programs such as legal aid, healthcare services, and women’s empowerment.
We cannot continue to ignore the funding gap. Social protection in the state received only four percent of the 2025 budget, Dr. Akinsanya noted. It’s time to do more.
Globally, one in three women and girls faces violence in their lifetime. In Ogun State, funding shortages have hampered the effectiveness of programs aimed at empowering women, protecting survivors, and holding offenders accountable.
While praising Governor Dapo Abiodun’s initiatives, including the Sexual Assault Referral Centres and women’s empowerment programs, Dr. Akinsanya emphasized the need for more financial commitment and stronger partnerships to make lasting change.
The group’s call for a Trust Fund and special court marks a critical moment for Ogun State in the fight against GBV. They urge the state government to take immediate action, promising that such steps will go a long way in ending GBV and promoting gender equality.