The Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency (DSVA) has urged the public to respond with care and responsibility, when children speak up about abuse.
The agency gave the advice in a post shared on its X handle @Lagosdsva, on Tuesday.
The DSVA noted that the first reaction could significantly impact a child’s safety and long-term wellbeing.
It further emphasised that a calm and supportive response was critical when a child gathered the courage to disclose abuse.
According to the DSVA, staying composed helps the child feel safe enough to continue speaking, while believing their account reassures them that they are not alone or being dismissed.
The agency warned against confronting alleged perpetrators or attempting to investigate the claims independently.
It noted that such actions could expose the child to further harm and potentially compromise formal intervention processes.
“What a child needs most in that moment is reassurance, not doubt.
“Individuals entrusted with such disclosures have a duty to listen attentively, prioritise the child’s safety and seek professional support immediately,” it stated.
The DSVA further highlighted that the response given at the point of disclosure could shape a child’s sense of safety and trust for years to come.
It encouraged residents to report cases of domestic or sexual abuse and seek assistance through the agency’s toll-free line: 0-8000-333-333.
