The Kaduna State Government has said it recorded a significant milestone in its efforts to combat gender-based violence, securing 11 convictions of offenders across the 23 Local Government Areas in 2024.
The Commissioner for Human Services and Social Development, Rabi Salisu, who made this known at a media briefing in Kaduna on Sunday, noted that the state government’s efforts to address GBV had yielded positive results.
“In 2024, Kaduna State secured convictions in 11 GBV cases, a remarkable milestone, particularly in northern Nigeria, where securing even two convictions annually was a challenge in the past,” she said.
The commissioner attributed the increase in GBV reporting to the efforts of the state government and civil society organisations, as well as growing trust in government institutions.
She also disclosed that the state government had established four operational Sexual Referral and Assault Centres, one in each senatorial zone, to provide support to victims of GBV.
She added that the Ministry of Justice had streamlined the judicial process for GBV cases, enabling advisory opinions to be issued within three days.
Salisu said, “Before, many GBV cases were reported anonymously, but now, victims and their families come forward to make formal complaints. This is a significant achievement for Kaduna State, especially when compared to other states in the North.
“These centres focus on preventive measures rather than merely responding to cases, ensuring a proactive approach to tackling GBV.
“This has curtailed delays and led to swifter justice for victims. Most of the convictions resulted in life imprisonment, with some cases carrying the death penalty. Convicted individuals cannot benefit from prison decongestion programs, ensuring justice is served.”
The commissioner stated that the state has also been ranked third in the country and first in the North for reporting GBV cases, according to the National Dashboard.
The state has seen a 30% increase in GBV reporting, which the commissioner attributed to the efforts of the state government and CSOs, as well as growing trust in government institutions.
“We have recorded significant progress in addressing GBV in Kaduna State. We will continue to work tirelessly to ensure that victims receive justice and that perpetrators are held accountable,” she said.
