Lagos State on Wednesday unveiled a comprehensive policy framework to combat technology-facilitated sexual and gender-based violence (TF-SGBV).
This is its most concerted effort yet to combat the growing tide of digital abuse across social media and online spaces.
The policy is intended to prevent crimes such as cyberstalking, online grooming, identity theft, digital extortion, and non-consensual image sharing, all of which officials say increasingly mimic offline patterns of violence.
A Technical Working Group was formed to oversee implementation and ensure coordinated enforcement by government agencies, civil society partners, law enforcement entities, and digital platforms.
The framework creates consistent procedures for preventing, reporting, investigating, and responding to online infractions, as well as improving Lagos' ability to recognise and assess future digital risks.
First Lady IbijokeSanwo-Olu stated that Lagos is confronting "new, complex avenues for abuse" as a result of fast digital expansion, emphasising the importance of taking structured action to protect those in need who are disproportionately targeted online.
She stated that social media and other digital tools had increased potential for exploitation and manipulation, and she advocated for collaborative action among government institutions, technology companies, and community actors.
Sanwo-Olu called technology-driven abuse as "real, evolving, and deeply harmful," and stated that the new policy is consistent with global initiatives under the 16 Days of Activism to bolster survivor-support systems.
She stated that the framework establishes clear principles for regulators, law enforcement agencies, and digital platforms to avoid online infractions and give quick remedies to affected individuals.
Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency executive secretary TitilolaVivour-Adeniyi said the policy is a significant step towards preserving Lagos people' digital rights and safety.
She added that the framework raises public knowledge of reporting channels, online safety practices, and relevant support services across the state.
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