In a smart move to empower survivors of domestic and sexual violence, the Lagos State Government has unveiled two innovative digital tools: an AI-driven WhatsApp chatbot, Ask INU, and a self-reporting evidence portal. These initiatives, developed by the Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency (DSVA), aim to provide survivors with immediate support, confidential guidance, and a secure pathway to justice.
Ask INU Chatbot: Immediate, Confidential Assistance
The Ask INU (I Need You) chatbot, accessible via WhatsApp at 0812 893 7058, offers survivors real-time access to critical resources. Designed to operate discreetly on a platform widely used across Nigeria, the chatbot provides:
- 24/7 Guidance: Information on reporting incidents, accessing legal aid, and connecting with counseling services.
- Confidentiality: Secure interactions to protect users’ privacy, addressing fears of stigma or retaliation.
- Multi-Service Referrals: Direct links to shelters, medical care, and law enforcement agencies.
“The chatbot bridges the gap between survivors and lifesaving resources,” the DSVA emphasized, highlighting its role in ensuring no survivor faces isolation or uncertainty.
Self-Reporting Evidence Portal: Strengthening Legal Outcomes
Complementing Ask INU is a new self-reporting portal integrated into Lagos’s Domestic and Sexual Violence Case Management System (DSVCMS). This platform enables survivors and mandated reporters (e.g., social workers, educators) to:
- Submit Case Details: Document incidents with structured forms.
- Upload Evidence Securely: Photos, videos, audio recordings, and medical reports can be stored digitally to prevent tampering or loss.
- Preserve Chain of Custody: Critical for building robust legal cases and holding perpetrators accountable.
The portal addresses longstanding challenges in evidence collection, particularly in cases where physical proof may degrade or disappear over time.
Global Context: AI as a Tool for Empowerment
Lagos’s initiatives align with global efforts to harness technology for survivor support. Examples include:
- rAInbow: A South African chatbot on Facebook Messenger that educates users on recognizing abuse and accessing resources.
- Sophia: Developed by Switzerland’s Spring ACT, this AI tool guides survivors in gathering court-admissible evidence while maintaining anonymity.
Such tools reflect a growing recognition of technology’s role in overcoming barriers like fear, shame, and bureaucratic hurdles.
A Step Toward Justice and Dignity
The DSVA underscored that these tools are part of Lagos State’s broader strategy to eradicate gender-based violence. “Survivors deserve not only empathy but also actionable support,” the agency stated. By digitizing evidence collection and democratizing access to information, Lagos aims to reduce underreporting and improve conviction rates.
Call to Action
Survivors and advocates are encouraged to utilize Ask INU and the evidence portal, available via von.gov.ng. As Lagos joins global pioneers in tech-driven advocacy, these tools signal a transformative shift in how societies address violence—prioritizing accessibility, dignity, and justice for all.
For more information, visit the Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency’s official platforms or contact the 24-hour emergency helpline.
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