Document Your Intervention to Build Reliable Database on GBV Cases in Bayelsa, O/C Gender Bayelsa Command Charges Stakeholders
By Victor Oroyi – Stakeholders in the gender advocacy space have been charged to document their various interventions in gender-based violence (GBV) cases in Bayelsa State to build a reliable database that will provide clarity on patterns and trends.
Chief Superintendent of Police Grace Richman, Officer in Charge of Gender, Nigeria Police Bayelsa Command, gave the charge while speaking as a facilitator during a one-day capacity-building training on Interventions for Gender-Based Violence, organised by the Chief Collins Cocodia Foundation (CCCF) in Yenagoa.
During her presentation titled “Intervention as First Responders: The Do’s and Don’ts in GBV Management,” she highlighted critical issues surrounding intervention processes, accountability, and the underlying causes of GBV in Nigeria and Bayelsa State.
She stressed that NGOs and civil society actors must clearly define their thematic focus areas and strengthen capacity within their chosen fields to achieve effective outcomes.
According to CSP Richman, the GBV response structure involves key professionals including caregivers who provide psychosocial support, medical personnel responsible for treatment and medical reporting, and legal practitioners who handle the prosecution of offenders in competent courts of law.
She advised stakeholders to understand and respect the roles of these professionals, noting that missteps or interference can jeopardize investigations and legal proceedings.
CSP Richman further emphasized the importance of collaboration and coordinated networking among GBV responders, warning against working in isolation, which often leads to gaps and inefficiencies in case management.
Participants expressed satisfaction with the training, describing it as insightful and timely. They noted that the knowledge gained would greatly enhance their ability to effectively manage GBV cases in their communities and professional spaces.
