The Benue State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to tackling Gender-Based Violence (GBV) through strategic partnerships with Civil Society Organizations (CSOs). This was announced by Governor Hyacinth Alia, represented by his Chief of Staff, Mr. Paul Biam, while receiving a draft communiqué from CSO stakeholders in Makurdi.

Governor Alia emphasized his administration’s resolve to create an environment conducive to reducing human rights abuses and pledged to collaborate with relevant stakeholders to implement policies aimed at minimizing GBV. He assured the stakeholders of his willingness to liaise with partners to achieve the shared goal of safeguarding vulnerable groups in the state.

The governor also encouraged the people of Benue to uphold moral standards to serve as role models for younger generations. He also urged women to educate their daughters on the importance of modest dressing to prevent unwanted harassment, a statement that has sparked mixed reactions from observers.

Civil Society Organizations in Benue State, including the Sexual Assault Referral Center (SARC), BENGONET, and the Community Link Empowerment Initiative, used the occasion to call on Governor Alia to facilitate the signing of the amended Violence Against Persons Prohibition (VAPP) Bill into law.

At the end of the 16 Days of Activism Against GBV, the groups organized a road walk from Savannah Roundabout to the Government House in Makurdi to present their communiqué. The document outlined key demands, including the need to strengthen legal frameworks and enhance the capacity of organizations like SARC to handle GBV cases effectively.

The communiqué, led by SARC Coordinator Linda Ene Dirisu, detailed the activities undertaken during the 16 Days of Activism and highlighted the need for adequate funding and equipment to combat GBV in Benue State. Dirisu called on the government to prioritize the safety and empowerment of survivors by addressing systemic gaps in GBV response.