For victims of gender-based violence, reporting abuse can be as difficult as surviving it. In Benin City, the Nigeria Police Force, Zone 5 Headquarters, is training its officers to respond with greater sensitivity, protect survivors and ensure justice.
The two-day programme brought together security personnel and other key players to strengthen the fight against abuse, particularly involving women, children and other vulnerable persons.
For survivors of abuse, a sensitive police response can make the difference between seeking justice and suffering in silence. This is the focus of a gender-based violence training programme organised by Police Zone 5 Headquarters, Benin City, in collaboration with international partners.
The training addresses victim protection, professional investigations and the handling of abuse cases without discrimination.
Representing the Assistant Inspector-General of Police, Zone 5, Monday Agbonika, the Deputy Commissioner of Police, Operations, Okoi Achibong-Akpama, and the Deputy Commissioner of Police, Criminal Investigation Department, Gabriel Dibie, stress victim safety and collaboration in tackling gender-based violence.
Facilitators highlight confidentiality and access to support services.
Participants say the training will strengthen their capacity to handle cases with professionalism and sensitivity.
The police note that the initiative is aimed at ensuring that survivors are treated with dignity and can seek justice without fear or intimidation.
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Editor: Ada Ononye
