The Lagos State government, through its Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency (DSVA), reported 920 male gender-based violence cases between November 2024 and November 2025.

Titilola Vivour-Adeniyi, executive secretary of DSVA, confirmed this on Wednesday in Yaba during the International Men’s Day celebration with the University of Lagos.

Represented by Damilare Adewusi, head of community engagement, Mrs Vivour-Adeniyi highlighted the growing visibility of men reporting abuse across Lagos State.

She said rising male reporting demonstrates increasing confidence in the state’s support systems for victims of abuse.

According to the DSVA report, 437 cases involved domestic violence, making it the most frequently reported violation during the period.

This is followed by 75 non-sexual and gender-based violence cases, 29 cases of denial of resources, and 12 reports of sexual harassment.

The agency also documented two rape cases, one attempted rape, and one sexual assault by penetration involving male survivors.

In addition, two cases involved threats to life, while two incidents concerned the revenge release of nude or pornographic content.

“These figures emphasise the need for continuous advocacy to ensure men feel safe reporting abuse and accessing support without stigma.

“Statistics often portray men as perpetrators, yet men can also be victims. They must know help is available and speaking out is acceptable,” she said.

Mrs Vivour-Adeniyi stressed that domestic and sexual violence affects all genders and the agency’s work ensures no one feels excluded from support services.

The agency regularly conducts engagements, including monthly men’s programmes in markets, focusing on home responsibilities and dismantling harmful gender stereotypes.

She expressed confidence that ongoing outreach would encourage more men to report abuse, noting the rise in cases reflects progress against stigma.

Adedini Oluropo, Bursary Department, University of Lagos (UNILAG), called for recognition of domestic violence against men, noting it is often underreported and misunderstood.

Mr Oluropo highlighted the emotional and psychological trauma men face, including financial pressure, emotional abuse, and mental health effects of domestic violence.

He warned that high male suicide rates are linked to domestic stress and societal pressure, which often prevent men from speaking about abuse.

Ademola Yusuf, chairman, Senior Staff Association, UNILAG branch, noted that awareness of men’s issues remains low compared to women’s experiences.

Mr Yusuf urged men to speak openly about violence, emphasising that women can also be violent, and that discussion is key to prevention.

(NAN)