GBV: UNFPA trains stakeholders on forensic samples collection

The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) has trained 35 police, judiciary, and health personnel in the collection of forensic samples in order to expedite the prosecution of Sexual, Gender-Based Violence (SGBV) cases in Adamawa.

The exercise is also intended to improve personnel’s ability to transfer and maintain a chain of evidence against perpetrators.

This was stated by Dr Danladi Idrisa, UNFPA Programme Officer in the state, in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Friday at the end of a four-day training exercise in Yola.

Idrisa stated that the training would help survivors of SGBV gain access to justice.

He stated that the goal of the training was to increase the competence of medical and prosecution officers in collecting forensic samples as well as to maintain the chain of evidence in relation to the SGBV.

According to the UNFPA official, one of the major disadvantages in the case of sexual violence is the provision of evidence beyond reasonable doubt.

“From June 2019 to September 2021, Adamawa saw over 900 reported cases of rape and sexual violence.”

“Less than 40% of reported cases were prosecuted with no conviction established, despite the fact that 98% of survivors are demanding justice,” he said.

Mrs Regina Gisalambe, a participant and GBV Desk Officer at the Federal Medical Centre in Yola, also spoke, saying she was now better informed about SGBV, human rights, and the importance of forensic evidence in pursuing justice for survivors.

“Previously, I was skeptical about the forensic evidence; however, with this training, our forensic lab at Modibbo Adama University in Yola will be better able to conduct investigations.”

“I received training on how to collect samples and what can contaminate the samples, as well as GBV laws,” she explained.

Furthermore, Fatima Raji of the International Federation of Women Lawyers Association (FIDA) stated that the training would improve the prosecution of offenders and the presentation of evidence in court.

“Through science, we learned how to present forensic evidence in court, which will help a lot of cases, especially when we don’t have physical evidence.”

“We can rely on scientific evidence gathered at the crime scene and connect it to the prosecution.”

“With this, we will be able to pursue more cases and achieve convictions,” she stated.