Lockdown: NGO Reopens Centre After 64% Increase In Calls Reveal Domestic, Sexual Abuse Surge
There has been an upsurge in the number of cases involving women and young adult complaining of domestic violence and sexual abuse since the Federal Government restricted movement in two states and the FCT in a bid to curb the spread of COVID-19.
Indeed, shocking statistics by Women at Risk International Foundation (WARIF) has revealed that domestic violence has surged since the start of the coronavirus lockdown, with help for the victims of abuse waning.
This decision was made after the NGO observed a 64 per cent increase in call cases, during the 14-day lockdown mandated by the Federal Government, to help curb the spread of the COVID-19.
As the lockdown period continues, WARIF states that it will continue with skeletal operations at its centre, with opening times on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays between the hours of 10:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.
Dr. Kemi Da-Silvia Ibru, the founder of WARIF, reiterated that all safety measures have been put in place to prevent cross-contamination between survivors who visit the centre on these days.
She also remarked that WARIF has provided personal protective equipment to ensure the safety of its frontline workers.
“During this period of lockdown, we have observed that the number of calls received through our 24-hour confidential helpline to report cases of domestic and sexual abuse had increased by 64 per cent compared to the time before the lockdown.
“Of the calls received, 72 per cent were from women under threat of violence, who have been forced into isolation with their abusers. This is a growing concern for us as the mandatory lockdown in effect may extend as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.
“We must continue to practice social distancing and encourage all to stay at home who do not fall under essential services, as these are important precautions against the spread of the virus, but we must also remember that for some, home is not the safest place to be. Everyone is encouraged to check up on their family and loved ones to ensure they are safe,” she said.
“We are also calling on individuals and corporate bodies to assist in our fundraising campaign to enable us to continue to stay open at the WARIF Centre and to provide more PPE kits for our frontline workers who are at the WARIF Centre as first responders to walk-in cases of rape and sexual abuse during these trying times”, she added.
