A Civil Society Organization known as Participation Initiative for Behavioural Change in Development (PIBCID) supported by Nigerian Women Trust Fund (NWTF) has called for stronger collaboration with the Nigeria Police to address gender-based violence, child protection, and insecurity.

‎The call was made during an advocacy visit to the Kogi State Commissioner of Police, Naziru Bello in Lokoja where stakeholders discussed challenges

‎in justice delivery and the need for sustained partnership between civil society organisations and law enforcement agencies.

‎Speaking during the visit, Mrs. Rachel Akande, Executive Director of the group emphasised the importance of community partnership in tackling insecurity.

‎She called for the training of community members across local government areas in the state to identify early warning signs and report security concerns promptly.

‎Also speaking, the Chairperson of the International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA), Barrister Oluwakemi Omeiza, highlighted funding constraints and procedural gaps that continue to hinder the prosecution of sexual and gender-based violence cases.

‎She noted that victims are often required to provide funds at different stages of investigation, a situation she described as unsustainable.

‎She also raised concerns over poor compliance with the Administration of Criminal Justice Law, particularly the failure to properly document confessional statements.

‎In his response, the Commissioner of Police, Naziru Bello welcomed the delegation and reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to partnership and zero tolerance for gender-based violence.

‎He explained that rape and sexual violence cases are handled exclusively by the Criminal Investigation Department, in line with existing police policy, to ensure professionalism and accountability.

‎The Commissioner further disclosed that the Command has approved specialised training for officers handling gender-based violence cases and invited the organization to participate in the programme.

‎He assured the group of continued support, open access to his office, and firm disciplinary action against any officer found undermining the law in such cases.

‎The visit forms part of the organization’s ongoing efforts to promote behavioural change, strengthen accountability, and protect the rights of women and children in Kogi State.

‎