The Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency (DSVA) has introduced two digital initiatives—an AI chatbot named Ask INU and a self-reporting evidence portal—to enhance access to support services for domestic violence survivors and mandated reporters.
These innovations align with Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s administration’s commitment to ensuring justice and comprehensive support for victims of domestic and sexual violence.
AI Chatbot: Ask INU
The first initiative, Ask INU (I Need You), is an AI-powered WhatsApp chatbot designed to provide immediate information and referrals. Survivors and concerned individuals can access the service by messaging 0812 893 7058 on WhatsApp.
“This tool ensures that survivors and those assisting them are empowered with critical knowledge of the resources at their disposal,” said DSVA Executive Secretary, Mrs. Titilola Vivour-Adeniyi, in a statement signed by Mrs. Adejoke Ladenegan-Oginni, Head of DSVA’s Public Affairs Unit.
Self-Reporting Evidence Portal
The second initiative, a Self-Reporting Tool integrated into the Domestic and Sexual Violence Case Management System (DSVCMS), allows survivors and mandated reporters to securely submit case details and upload crucial evidence.
By visiting lagosdsvcms.org and clicking on the ‘Report’ tab, users can submit essential case details and upload evidence such as pictures, audio or video recordings, and medical reports.
Vivour-Adeniyi emphasized the importance of evidence preservation in ensuring swift and effective justice.
“About 60% of survivors who originally had pictorial, documentary, or audio evidence of abuse either misplaced it, accidentally or voluntarily deleted it, or had their devices destroyed by their abusive partners. With this portal, survivors can securely store and retrieve their evidence when they are ready to seek justice,” she stated.
Strengthening Survivor Support and Justice
Vivour-Adeniyi reiterated DSVA’s commitment to leveraging technology to combat domestic violence, ensure perpetrator accountability, and break the culture of silence.
“These innovations will provide seamless access to support for survivors, improve evidence collection for prosecution, and help prevent future occurrences,” she said.
With these digital advancements, Lagos State is taking a significant step toward strengthening justice for survivors and creating a safer society.
