The Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun has approved the expansion of Gender-Based Violence (GBV) desk offices to all police division nationwide, a development that aims to enhance efficiency, improve service delivery and ensure easier access to justice for citizens.
This was contained in a press release by the Nigeria Police Force on Monday, describing the decision as a move to reinforce their commitment to human rights.
The Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP), Olumuyiwa Adejobi said the GBV desk which was previously limited to zonal and state commands will be established at the divisional level to ensure that cases of GBV receive prompt attention.
In his words, “Previously limited to zonal and state commands, GBV desk offices will now be established at the divisional level, ensuring that cases of gender-based violence receive prompt, specialized, and professional attention”.
Adejobi also disclose that the IGP has mandated the appointment of qualified GBV desk officers who will undergo trainings to equip them as professionals who can handle GBV cases effectively.
“To support this expansion, the IGP has mandated the appointment of qualified officers as GBV desk officers. These officers will undergo specialized training to equip them with the necessary skills, knowledge, and expertise to handle GBV cases effectively.” He said.
More so, the Juvenile, Women, and Children (JWC) section in each division is to be overseen by the respective desk officers, this was said to provide a holistic approach in handling gender-based violence and related cases, fostering a supportive environment for victims and ensuring swift justice delivery.
“Additionally, divisional GBV desk officers will now oversee the Juvenile, Women, and Children (JWC) section in their divisions.
This integration is designed to provide a holistic approach to handling gender-based violence and related cases, fostering a supportive environment for victims and ensuring swift justice delivery. The strengthening of the GBV desk offices underscores the Nigeria Police Force’s commitment to safeguarding the rights of victims and survivors of gender-based violence.
It is a proactive response to the increasing need for focused resources and specialized interventions to protect vulnerable populations.” He said.
Meanwhile, The IGP has urged all citizens to report incidents of violence and to take advantage of these desk offices to seek justice and protection.
Adejobi further revealed that the Nigeria Police Force remains steadfast in its mission to uphold justice and ensuring that all citizens’ rights and freedoms are protected without discrimination or bias.
“The Nigeria Police Force remains steadfast in its mission to uphold justice, ensuring that all citizens’ rights and freedoms are protected without discrimination or bias.” He said.
