By James Ogunnaike, Abeokuta

The Chief Judge of Ogun State, Justice Mosunmola Dipeolu, has called on all stakeholders in Nigeria’s justice sector to work collectively to eliminate delays in prosecuting cases of sexual violence and as well prioritise speedy justice for survivors of sexual assault.

Speaking in Abeokuta on Saturday at a women’s empowerment programme themed “Justice for Survivors of Sexual Violence,” organised by the Headforth Foundation, Justice Dipeolu, who was represented by Justice Adedokun Jibodu, emphasised the need for accelerated hearings and stronger support systems for survivors.

She appealed to lawyers to offer pro bono legal services to victims, noting that timely and compassionate legal support is crucial to helping survivors navigate the justice process.

She said, “the theme of this programme is a call to action. It speaks directly to our mandate to provide redress, protect the vulnerable, and uphold the rule of law.”

Justice Dipeolu described sexual violence as a crime that destroys both body and spirit, quoting the late Justice Chima Nweze, who called it “a fundamental assault on human dignity.” 

While acknowledging that the Ogun State Violence Against Persons Prohibition (VAPP) Law of 2017 provides a strong legal framework, she stressed the need to further strengthen investigative and judicial processes.

According to her, the judiciary must ensure that cases of sexual violence receive priority attention. She advocated the use of in-camera trials and protective measures for survivors, adding that judicial rulings must reflect the gravity of such offences and make full use of compensation provisions.

Quoting the late Justice Kayode Eso, she reminded judges that “the law is not a respecter of any person or status,” and urged them to remain impartial, especially in cases involving influential suspects.

She also called on the police to maintain effective Gender Desks and ensure that first responders handle cases with professionalism, empathy, and urgency. Proper evidence gathering, she said, is critical to successful prosecution.

Justice Dipeolu emphasised the importance of the Police Medical Form, describing it as a vital piece of forensic documentation, and urged hospitals to serve as “sanctuaries of care and centres of forensic excellence.”

The Chief Judge commended civil society organisations, including the Headforth Foundation, for their advocacy efforts and encouraged religious and community leaders to help dismantle the culture of silence and stigma surrounding sexual violence.

Speaking with newsmen, the Programme Manager of the Headforth Foundation, Oluwakemi Adenekan, said the programme was organized to close gaps in the justice system, particularly the barriers preventing survivors from speaking out or accessing legal support. 

She noted that many victims remain silent due to fear of stigmatization or lack of knowledge about available resources.

Adenekan said the foundation, with support from the African Women Development Fund, (FIDA), the Nigerian Bar Association, Gender Development Initiatives, and Arogi Traumacare Foundation, is working to educate women, especially in rural communities on how to seek justice.

Other speakers at the event included Prof. Olubunmi Ashimolowo, Executive Director of Gender Development Initiative; Mrs. Oluwatoyin Orelaja, Centre Manager, Sexual Assault Referral Centre, Sagamu; Mrs. Taiwo Olusesi, Chairperson of the International Federation of Women Lawyers; and representatives of the Nigeria Police Force.