IGP Expands Gender-Based Violence Desk To All Police Divisions Nationwide
By Anne Osemekeh, Abuja
The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun, has approved the expansion of Gender-Based Violence (GBV) desk offices to all police divisions nationwide.
The Force spokesman, Muyiwa Adejobi, who made this known in a statement on Saturday, said the initiative is to bolster the Nigeria Police Force’s commitment to human rights and to enhance efficiency, improve service delivery, and ensure easier access to justice for citizens.
GBV Desks previously limited to zonal and state commands, will now be established at the divisional level, ensuring that cases of gender-based violence receive prompt, specialized, and professional attention.
Adejobi said that in furtherance of 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 added further that 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”, Adejobi stated adding that 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, and is a proactive response to the increasing need for focused resources and specialized interventions to protect vulnerable populations.
The IGP has urged all citizens to report incidents of violence and take advantage of these desk offices to seek justice and protection, even as the Force remains steadfast in its mission to uphold justice, ensuring that all citizens’ rights and freedoms are protected without discrimination or bias.
