The Lagos State Government has introduced a new Child Sexual Abuse Investigative and Interview Protocol, a groundbreaking framework designed to safeguard victims while strengthening the prosecution of sexual abuse cases.
The initiative, rolled out through the Ministry of Justice in partnership with the Rule of Law and Anti-Corruption (RoLAC) Programme and the Cece Yara Foundation, establishes a victim-centred approach for interviewing children. It seeks to reduce trauma while ensuring evidence is properly preserved.
Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr Lawal Pedro, SAN, described the protocol as “a bold and necessary step towards ending child sexual abuse in our communities.”
“Today is about giving a voice to children who have been silenced by fear and shame. This protocol ensures that every investigative step protects the child, preserves the integrity of evidence, and delivers justice swiftly and compassionately,” Mr Pedro said.
He also charged newly certified forensic interviewers to carry out their duties with professionalism, empathy, and integrity.
In a statement signed by him, the Attorney-General reaffirmed the government’s commitment to sustained collaboration between police officers, medical practitioners, social workers, and legal experts so that child sexual abuse cases are handled with the urgency and sensitivity they demand.
RoLAC State Coordinator, Mrs Ajibola Ijimakinwa, noted that the initiative reflects RoLAC’s mandate of reforming the justice sector and protecting vulnerable groups.
“This protocol will ensure that child victims receive justice without further harm. Our collaboration with the Lagos State Government demonstrates what is possible when stakeholders unite with a common goal,” she explained.
Founder of the Cece Yara Foundation, Mrs Bola Tinubu, stressed that the real victory lies in consistent and collective action.
“Every child deserves to be heard in a safe and supportive environment. This initiative equips professionals with the tools to listen, understand, and act in the best interest of the child,” she said.
She added that beyond launching frameworks and training experts, every individual has a responsibility to safeguard children from abuse.
A major feature of the event was the presentation of certificates to newly certified forensic interviewers, who are now trained to conduct sensitive interviews with children in line with international best practices.
The event drew representatives from the judiciary, Lagos State Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs), the Nigeria Police Force, Child Protection Services, and Civil Society Organisations.
