By: Adelowo Oladipo, Minna
The Niger State Police Command has raised an alarm over the growing cases of sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV), particularly child molestation and sexual offences involving girls across the state.
Commissioner of Police, Niger State Police Command, CP Adamu Abdullahi Elleman, stated this on Wednesday during a one-day capacity-building training for Gender Desk Officers from divisional commands, held at the Police Officers’ Mess, GRA, Minna.
Elleman noted that police officers are often the first point of contact for survivors of SGBV, stressing the need for them to acquire the skills and professional knowledge required to handle such cases effectively.
“The training is designed to expose officers to practical challenges associated with SGBV cases, particularly proper documentation, investigation and response,” he said.
The CP directed officers to treat survivors with dignity, empathy, respect and professionalism throughout the reporting and investigation processes.
Earlier, Officer-in-Charge of the Gender Section, ASP Hadiza Adamu, explained that the programme was a step-down training following an SGBV course she attended in Abuja.
She emphasized the importance of sharing knowledge and practical skills with Gender Desk Officers across the state to strengthen their capacity to respond appropriately to SGBV cases.
“Officers receiving complaints must listen attentively, demonstrate empathy, document allegations accurately, conduct professional investigations and protect the dignity and rights of survivors,” Hadiza further stated.
The training featured sessions on diligent investigation and prosecution of SGBV cases, psychological trauma, the legal framework on SGBV, inter-agency collaboration, and Nigeria Police-approved procedures for responding to such cases.
Speakers included CSP Jude Akaeze, ACP Tapshak Bitrus Sekat, Mrs. Bolanle O. Jibogun (Chairperson of FIDA), Aisha Yusuf, Esq., and Inspector Solomon Washima.
The programme drew attendance from the Commissioner for Women Affairs, Hajia Hadiza Idris Kuta; representatives of the Niger State House of Assembly; Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Women Affairs, Hon. Hadiza Shiru; FIDA representatives; traditional leaders and other stakeholders.
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Meanwhile, the Command reiterated its commitment to professional, sensitive and accountable handling of SGBV cases, while pledging stronger collaboration with relevant agencies to curb the menace.
