FIC Report (Edo State) – Edo State is positioning itself at the forefront of Nigeria’s fight against the rising tide of Digital Gender-Based Violence (GBV), with a strategic partnership and comprehensive policy development aimed at addressing online harassment, cyberstalking, and the non-consensual sharing of intimate images. Recognizing the increasing prevalence of technology-facilitated abuse, the state is committed to pioneering innovative legal and institutional responses to safeguard women and girls in digital spaces.
The initiative was officially unveiled during an inception meeting held at the John Odigie Public Service Academy (JOOPSA) in Benin City, bringing together key stakeholders from Government Ministries, Law Enforcement Agencies, Civil Society organizations, and legal Practitioners. The gathering underscored Edo State’s resolve to combat emerging digital threats that undermine the dignity, safety, and participation of women and girls in society.
Edo State’s Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Mrs. Eugenia Abdallah, emphasized the importance of proactive measures in the face of rapidly evolving digital abuse. She stated, “While we have made significant strides in addressing traditional forms of gender-based violence, the digital realm presents new challenges that require us to rethink our policies and responses. We are committed to leading Nigeria in creating a safer digital environment for women and girls.”
Mrs. Abdallah highlighted that the partnership with the Rule of Law and Anti-Corruption (RoLAC) program is instrumental in this effort. RoLAC’s involvement includes providing technical expertise, legal frameworks, and international best practices to develop a robust policy that can effectively address Technology-Facilitated Gender Violence. She noted that this initiative reflects Edo’s broader commitment to justice, accountability, and gender equality.
Uche Nwokedi, RoLAC’s State Coordinator, explained that existing legal frameworks, such as the Violence Against Persons Prohibition (VAPP) Law, are insufficient to encompass the digital dimensions of harassment and abuse. “We need laws that explicitly define and punish online gender-based violence, ensuring that survivors can access justice and perpetrators are held accountable,” he said. Nwokedi affirmed that a dedicated policy framework is essential for closing legal gaps and providing clear guidelines for enforcement.
The development process involves forming a specialized drafting committee tasked with creating a comprehensive policy aligned with global best practices. The committee will draw on the “TF-GBV Zero Draft,” a technical document presented during the meeting, which clearly defines digital offences and advocates for Survivor-Centered response mechanisms. The goal is to establish a policy that not only criminalizes online abuse but also offers practical support and protection for survivors.
Stakeholders identified several priority areas during breakout sessions, including legal reforms, survivor reporting systems, digital literacy campaigns, prevention strategies, and institutional accountability. A Technical Working Group (TWG) comprising representatives from Government Agencies, Civil Society, Law Enforcement, and Legal Professionals was launched to refine the draft into a final policy document.
Mrs. Abdallah urged TWG members to incorporate the lived realities of survivors into their work, emphasizing that the policy should serve as a practical tool for justice and protection. The group is expected to complete its task within the coming months, positioning Edo State as a leader in Nigeria’s response to digital gender threats.
By taking these bold steps, Edo State aims not only to enhance protections within its borders but also to serve as a model for other states in Nigeria. As digital technology continues to advance, the state’s proactive approach underscores its commitment to ensuring that the rights and dignity of women and girls are safeguarded in every sphere of life, including the rapidly expanding digital landscape.
By Egwaoje Amarachi Linda
ACI&PRO FIC Benin
April 16th, 2026.
