Kaduna state has recorded significant decline in GBV cases – Commissioner
By Hussaina Yakubu
Kaduna State Commissioner for Human Services and Social Development, Hajiya Rabi Salisu, has announced a significant reduction in Gender-Based Violence (GBV) cases in the state.
The commissioner made this known in an interview with newsmen on Sunday in Kaduna.
She said the state has alsostrengthened it’s Sexual Assault Referral Centres (SARCs), offering medical and psycho-social services to GBV victims.
Hajiya Rabi said the state is ranked third on the National Dashboard for GBV reporting in Nigeria and holds the top position among all northern states, including Abuja.
“This is a significant achievement that more people need to recognise. We are making great strides in preventing GBV in the state,” she said.
The commissioner explained that the state has witnessed 30% increase in GBV reporting, which reflects improved awareness and trust in the system, not a rise in GBV incidents as previously mispresented.
She attributed the successes recorded to intensive sensitisation campaigns and the strengthening of the SARCs across the state.
The commissioner disclosed that Kaduna state has four operational SARCs, one in each senatorial zone, supported by a dedicated budget from the state government.
“These centres now focus on preventive measures rather than merely responding to cases, and ensuring a proactive approach to tackling GBV.”
Hajiya Rabi highlighted that the Ministry of Justice has streamlined the judicial process for GBV cases, enabling advisory opinions to be issued within three days.
The commissioner said this has curtailed delays in prosecution and led to swifter justice for victims.
She said in 2024, the state secured convictions in 11 GBV cases, describing it as a remarkable milestone, particularly in northern Nigeria, where securing two convictions annually was a challenge in the past.
“Most of the convictions resulted in life imprisonment, with some cases carrying the death penalty,” she said.
She added that those convicted of GBV in the state will not benefit from prison decongestion programmes, carried out periodically.
“This is a significant achievement for Kaduna State, especially when compared to other states in the North. It all happened under this administration,” she stated.
The commissioner also credited the increase in GBV reporting to the efforts of Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) and the growing trust in government institutions.
“Before now, many GBV cases were reported anonymously, but now, victims and their families come forward to make formal complaints,” she said.
She also clarified that GBV encompasses more than rape, as it includes early and forced marriages, child labour, domestic abuse, and psychological violence.
“The holistic approach adopted by the state has played a key role in reducing GBV and ensuring justice for survivors,” she added.
NAN
