Stakeholders in Kaduna State have expressed concern over the weak prosecution of Sexual and Gender-Based Violence cases, calling for stronger enforcement of existing laws and improved access to justice for survivors.
They made the call during a policy dialogue organised by the CLEEN Foundation in Kaduna on October 14, 2026, where participants discussed challenges affecting the implementation of the Violence Against Persons Prohibition Law in the state.
The stakeholders identified inadequate investigations, delays in court proceedings, limited public awareness, social stigma and pressure from families and community members as factors undermining the prosecution of sexual and gender-based violence cases.
The Executive Director of the CLEEN Foundation, Peter Maduoma, represented by Justina Johnson, said the existence of legislation alone could not guarantee justice for survivors without effective implementation and enforcement.
He identified poor coordination among relevant institutions, insufficient funding, inadequate support services and weaknesses in investigation and prosecution as major obstacles to addressing gender-based violence.
Maduoma stressed the need to ensure that survivors could report abuse without intimidation, discrimination or victim-blaming. He also emphasised the importance of protecting children and other vulnerable people from violence.
The foundation’s Programme Director, Dr Salaudeen Hasheem, called for increased public awareness of the VAPP Law and improved access to reporting mechanisms and legal protection.
According to findings presented at the dialogue, 17.9 per cent of residents in Kaduna State had never heard of the VAPP Law, while a cited study indicated that approximately 38 per cent of women aged 14 to 49 had experienced physical or sexual violence.
The Commissioner for Human Services and Social Development, Dr Rabi Salisu, represented by her Senior Special Assistant, Maryam Muazu, reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to strengthening the implementation of the law.
She called for improved collaboration among government agencies, security organisations, the judiciary, healthcare providers, civil society groups, traditional rulers and religious leaders.
Salisu also stressed the need for adequate funding, professional training, clear institutional responsibilities and accountability measures to address negligence and misconduct.
Participants further advocated stronger Sexual Assault Referral Centres and improved case-tracking systems to help survivors access medical treatment, psychosocial support and legal assistance.
They urged families and community leaders to stop pressuring survivors to withdraw complaints or settle serious allegations informally, warning that such practices could obstruct justice.
The stakeholders called on the Kaduna State Government and relevant institutions to develop measurable strategies for improving investigations, strengthening prosecution and ensuring that perpetrators of sexual and gender-based violence are held accountable under the law.
They maintained that sustained public education, institutional cooperation and survivor-centred services were essential to closing the gap between legislation and justice.
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