By Isiaka Mustapha, Editor in Chief, People’s Security Monitor

The Oyo State Command of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), under the leadership of Commandant Augustine Padonu, has recorded 231 cases involving sexual and gender based violence, domestic violence, child abuse and other child protection concerns between January and September 2026.The cases, documented by the Command’s Gender Unit, highlight the range of challenges confronting women, children and other vulnerable persons.

They also underscore the need for timely reporting, public awareness and effective intervention to prevent abuse and protect victims.A monthly breakdown of the reported cases showed that January recorded the highest number, with 35 incidents, followed by March and September, which recorded 32 cases each. February accounted for 29 cases, July 27, June 22, May 21, April 18 and August 15.

The cases covered several areas, including child placement, custody disputes, denial of access to children, neglect, abduction, defilement, sexual abuse, domestic violence, rape, physical assault, cyberbullying, battery, threats to life, emotional abuse and pregnancy related disputes.Child placement accounted for the highest number of cases, with 78 incidents recorded during the nine month period. Child neglect followed with 27 cases, while denial of access to children accounted for 22. Child custody disputes recorded 20 cases, domestic violence 18 and physical assault 15.

Other incidents included 13 rape cases, 10 child abduction cases and seven cases of child abuse. The Command also recorded three cases each of child defilement, sexual abuse and child sexual harassment. Additional complaints involved battery, cyberbullying, emotional assault, threats to life, abandonment and disputes over responsibility for pregnancy.The figures illustrate the diverse nature of complaints handled by the Command, ranging from family related disputes to allegations of serious criminal offences.

Each case requires appropriate assessment, investigation and, where necessary, referral to relevant agencies for further action in accordance with the law.Commandant Padonu reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to protecting lives and property, safeguarding the rights of vulnerable persons and responding professionally to reports of abuse, exploitation and violence.He urged members of the public to promptly report suspected cases of sexual and gender based violence, domestic abuse, child neglect, trafficking and other forms of exploitation to the appropriate authorities.

He stressed that early reporting could facilitate intervention and help prevent further harm to victims.The Commandant also emphasised the importance of cooperation among security agencies, government institutions, healthcare providers, social welfare authorities, civil society organisations and community leaders in addressing violence and protecting vulnerable members of society.

He called for sustained public enlightenment and early intervention, noting that parents, guardians, school authorities and community leaders have important roles to play in identifying warning signs, preventing abuse and ensuring that suspected cases receive appropriate attention.Padonu further advised members of the public to preserve relevant evidence where it is safe to do so and avoid actions that could expose victims or survivors to additional harm.

He urged the public to treat survivors with dignity, respect their privacy and refrain from victim blaming, intimidation or the unauthorised disclosure of sensitive information, particularly in cases involving children.The NSCDC reiterated its commitment to working with relevant stakeholders to strengthen community safety, protect vulnerable persons and ensure that allegations of violence, abuse and exploitation are properly reported, investigated and addressed in accordance with the law.