Ogun CJ Demands Accelerated Justice for Sexual Violence Survivors

​Abeokuta, Ogun State—The Ogun State Chief Judge (CJ), Justice Mosunmola Dipeolu, has issued a strong mandate to the judiciary and law enforcement agencies, urging them to eliminate all forms of delay and grant accelerated hearing priority to cases of sexual violence.

​Speaking through Justice Adedokun Jibodu at a women empowerment programme titled “Justice For Survivors of Sexual Violence,” organized by the Headforth Foundation on Saturday, Justice Dipeolu stressed that the legal system must rise to meet the gravity of these crimes, which she described as “a fundamental assault on human dignity.”

The event reinforced the judicial mandate to protect the vulnerable, a message underpinned by the keynote address, “Strengthening Legal Pathways for Survivors of Sexual Violence.”​

🏛️ Judicial and Legal Professionals: A Duty to Act

​Justice Dipeolu emphasized that the judiciary has a duty to eliminate delay in handling sexual violence matters. She outlined several crucial measures for judges:​

Prioritization: Sexual violence cases must be placed at the forefront of the court’s calendar.​

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Protection for Survivors: Utilization of provisions for in-camera trials (trials held in private) and screen testimony to shield survivors from the intimidation of an open court.

​Deterrent Rulings: Rulings must reflect the seriousness of the crime, making full use of compensation orders and aligning with the intent of the legislature.​

Quoting the renowned jurist, Justice Kayode Eso, the CJ reminded the audience that “the law is not a respecter of any person or status,” asserting that justice delivery must be impartial and accessible to all.

​A Call for Pro Bono Service​

The Chief Judge also issued a direct appeal to lawyers, who serve as the “first line of guidance” for survivors. She called on them to provide pro bono legal services to guide survivors through the complex legal process, ensure access to justice, and “hold the system accountable for its failures.”

​🚨 Strengthening Law Enforcement and Evidence​

In her comprehensive call to action, Justice Dipeolu addressed the critical role of law enforcement and medical institutions:​

Police Gender Desks: She urged the police to establish Gender Desks specifically committed to providing a sensitive, professional, and swift response to sexual violence cases.

​Empathy and Urgency: The CJ stressed that a survivor’s initial interaction with the police can either re-victimize them or start their journey to healing. She demanded that evidence be preserved, statements be taken with empathy, and investigations be conducted with urgency.​

The Police Medical Form: This document was highlighted as not “just paperwork but a foundational piece of evidence.” Justice Dipeolu insisted that hospitals must be sanctuaries of care and centres of forensic excellence, recognizing their critical role in building a credible case.

​🤝 Community Action and Legal Framework​

The Violence Against Persons Prohibition (VAPP) Law of Ogun State (2017) was acknowledged by the CJ as providing a strong legal foundation. However, she stressed the need for all stakeholders to actively strengthen this path to ensure accelerated justice.

​The event, which saw collaborative efforts with organizations like the African Women Development Fund, FIDA (International Federation of Women Lawyers), and the Nigeria Bar Association, highlighted the gaps survivors face. Oluwakemi Adenekan, Programme Manager of Headforth Foundation, noted that many survivors fail to access justice due to fear of stigma or lack of knowledge on the steps to seek redress, which the sensitization programme aims to combat, especially for women in remote areas.

​Finally, Justice Dipeolu passionately urged religious and community leaders to become strong allies in dismantling the culture of silence and shame. She implored them to “preach against victim-blaming and create a safe environment for survivors.”​

The sensitization programme also featured other key speakers, including Prof. Olubunmi Ashimolowo of the Gender Development Initiative, Mrs. Oluwatoyin Orelaja of the Sexual Assault Referral Centre, Sagamu, and Mrs. Taiwo Olusesi, Chairperson of FIDA, underscoring the broad-based commitment to the cause of justice for survivors in Ogun State.