Domestic violence is one of the most pervasive legal challenges Nigerians face. A 2023 Justice Needs and Satisfaction (JNS) survey by HiiL estimated that in Ogun state alone 15,000 domestic violence cases occur each year – and domestic violence is likely to be underreported. Behind this statistic are women struggling to feel safe and heard in a system that has not met their needs.
This pressing reality calls for innovative approaches to support survivors effectively. The Violence Against Persons Prohibition (VAPP) Law, enacted by Ogun State in 2018, was a significant step in addressing sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV). However, translating this legal framework into meaningful change for survivors requires effective implementation and innovative solutions.
Innovating Justice Delivery: The Justice Innovation Lab in Ogun State
In response to these challenges, justice providers, legal experts, community leaders, and healthcare professionals came together in a HiiL-convened Justice Innovation Lab to co-design practical solutions. This collective effort led to the creation of Ibi Isadi—which means “a place of refuge” in Yoruba—a service designed to truly put the needs of survivors of domestic violence first by integrating legal, medical, and community-based support systems.
Ibi Isadi operates with two key components. First, individuals experiencing domestic violence can directly connect with Community Justice Representatives (CJRs) stationed at Primary Health Care Centres (PHCCs). Second, an online portal allows CJRs to offer support, information, and personalised referral plans. This multi-channel approach ensures survivors can choose the most accessible and comfortable way to seek help—whether through a phone call, online interaction, or visit to a health centre.
For those working on the front lines—community justice workers, legal professionals, and law enforcement—Ibi Isadi provides essential tools like advice, guidelines, training, and referral networks, ensuring that cases are handled with care and consistency. This ensures a more coordinated response to domestic violence cases, improving outcomes for survivors.
‘’For sure, I want to prophesy that Ibi Isadi has come to stay whether the devil likes it or not because the poor must breathe emotionally, psychologically and in all ramifications. With the Ibi Isadi Solution cases of DV must be reduced to the barest minimum particular for persons with disability who have little or no voice in our various communities.” — Dr. Ebonhor Michael Ndidi, Chairman, Joint Association of Persons with Disability – Ogun State Chapter.
Backed by Commitment and Resources
The Ogun State Government is creating an enabling environment for this initiative to thrive including committing funds for a pilot phase. This year-long pilot of Ibi Isadi will provide an opportunity to test and refine the model, with the aim of scaling up the service across the state.
This initiative exemplifies HiiL’s Diagnosis, Design, Delivery (3D) approach in action. By starting with a deep understanding of justice challenges through data and insights (Diagnosis), accompanying stakeholders in co-creating solutions like Ibi Isadi (Design), and finally moving to supporting implementation (Delivery) so that people-centred justice services that address the most pressing justice needs are embedded in the system. Ogun State’s experience demonstrates how a 3D approach can turn bold ideas into practical, scalable solutions for lasting impact.
