Three communities in Ondo State have adopted community-specific Standard Operating Procedures to strengthen efforts against gender-based violence.

The communities are Oba-Ile, Iju and Ilara-Mokin in Akure North and Ifedore Local Government Areas.

The initiative was carried out with the Rule of Law and Empowerment Initiative, also known as Partners West Africa Nigeria. It forms part of a project aimed at improving police-community engagement to prevent and respond to gender-based violence.

Speaking at the adoption programme in Akure on Thursday, the organisation’s Executive Director, Kemi Okenyodo, said the goal is to place greater responsibility on communities themselves.

The project has been implemented in five states, including Ondo, and focuses on prevention, local ownership, training and public awareness.

Okenyodo explained that the organisation spent more than 18 months working with community members and law enforcement officers. Traditional leaders and residents were involved because harmful social and cultural practices often fuel gender-based violence.

Gender-Based Violence Task Forces made up of local leaders, youths, women and persons with disabilities will serve as focal points for implementing the procedures.

The Standard Operating Procedures include safeguards for survivors, such as confidentiality rules and clear guidance that task force members must not pressure anyone to withdraw a case. Officials said the procedures will remain in the communities after the project ends, ensuring continued local action against gender-based violence.

Photo credit: Punch Newspaper