Hurriya Lawal, the wife of Zamfara State Governor, has called for urgent action to ensure swift justice in cases of Gender-Based Violence (GBV), emphasizing its importance in combating the pervasive issue in Nigeria.
Speaking at a symposium in Gusau, the state capital, Mrs. Lawal highlighted the role of speedy legal processes in deterring perpetrators and fostering a safer environment for victims. The event was part of activities marking the Sixteen Days of Activism Against GBV, a global campaign aimed at raising awareness and driving efforts to eliminate violence against women and other vulnerable groups.
Mrs. Lawal also drew attention to the insecurity plaguing Zamfara State, which has not only disrupted economic activities but also contributed to a rise in GBV cases. She stressed the need for strict penalties and public shaming of offenders to discourage such crimes.
“Insecurity has left many families in economic hardship, and this, combined with societal challenges, exacerbates gender-based violence,” she stated.
The symposium featured Garba Yandi, Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, as the Guest Speaker. Mr. Yandi outlined the various forms of GBV and underscored the importance of a unified approach to address the problem.
Participants urged victims to speak out against abuse, emphasizing that silence often emboldens perpetrators. They encouraged women and other affected individuals to report incidents to authorities, ensuring that justice is served for victims and offenders face appropriate consequences.
The event brought together a broad spectrum of participants, including government officials, security representatives, civil society organizations, human rights advocates, traditional rulers, and religious leaders. These stakeholders reiterated their commitment to addressing GBV through advocacy, support for victims, and community engagement.
Discover more from Amebo Media
Subscribe now to keep reading and get access to the full archive.