In a groundbreaking move to combat domestic and sexual violence, the Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency (DSVA) has introduced two technology-driven innovations aimed at improving access to support services for survivors and mandated reporters.
The initiatives—Ask INU (I Need You), an AI-powered WhatsApp chatbot, and a Self-Reporting Tool via the Domestic and Sexual Violence Case Management System (DSVCMS)—align with Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s commitment to delivering justice and holistic care to survivors.
With Ask INU, users can send a WhatsApp message to 0812 893 7058 to receive confidential, real-time information on available support services. This chatbot empowers survivors and those assisting them with critical knowledge, ensuring they know their rights and the resources available to them.
Meanwhile, the Self-Reporting Tool on lagosdsvcms.org allows survivors and mandated reporters to securely submit case details, including crucial evidence such as pictures, audio and video recordings, and medical reports. This innovation tackles a major challenge—evidence loss—since studies indicate that 60% of survivors who initially had such proof later misplace, delete, or lose it due to destruction by their abusers.
By providing a secure digital vault for evidence storage, the Lagos DSVA strengthens prosecution efforts and enhances the chances of securing justice for survivors.
Executive Secretary of the Lagos DSVA, Titilola Vivour-Adeniyi, emphasized that these technological interventions are part of the agency’s broader mission to break the culture of silence, facilitate seamless support access, and hold perpetrators accountable.
“With these innovations, Lagos State is setting a new benchmark in the fight against domestic and sexual violence—ensuring survivors get the justice they deserve while working to prevent future cases,” she stated.
As the state continues its aggressive push against gender-based violence, these digital tools mark a significant leap forward in ensuring survivors are heard, protected, and supported.
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