Analysis of Institutional Responses to Gender-Based Violence in Plateau State

Effective institutional response to gender-based violence requires coordinated action across law enforcement, health, legal aid, and social welfare systems. This study analyses the capacity, coordination, and responsiveness of institutions mandated to respond to GBV in Plateau State, focusing on police, hospitals, courts, and social development services in Jos North and Mangu Local Government Areas. A mixed-method design was employed, with 80 institutional representatives completing structured questionnaires and 25 GBV survivors providing testimony through semi-structured interviews. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics and thematic analysis. Findings reveal significant institutional fragmentation, with limited formal referral pathways between police, health, and legal services. GBV-specific training has been received by fewer than 30% of frontline law enforcement officers in the sample. Health facilities lack standard protocols for GBV case management, and forensic evidence collection is inadequately handled. Social welfare services are chronically under-resourced, with social workers managing caseloads far beyond recommended standards. Survivors report re-traumatisation through poor handling by institutional actors. Recommendations include a multi-sectoral GBV response protocol for Plateau State, mandatory GBV sensitivity training for all frontline officials, and a dedicated GBV response fund. Keywords: institutional response, GBV, Plateau State, gender, service coordination