Benin In recognition of his contributions to the state’s fight against gender-based violence (GBV), the Edo State government has put the wheels in motion to award Very Rev. Father Fidelis Arhedo, a Catholic priest, rights activist, and Executive Director of the Uromi Justice Development and Peace Caritas Initiative (Uromi JDPCI), with an award.
“The award ceremony is part of activities marking the 2024 International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women and Girls and the 16 Days of Activism against Gender Based Violence,” said Mrs. Joy Ihensekhien, the acting Permanent Secretary of the Edo State Ministry of Social Development and Gender Issues, in a letter notifying the clergy of the award.
“The objective of the programme amongst others is to increase awareness on gender based violence and the provisions of the VAPP Law, mobilise communities to take action, provide support services for survivors and engage men and boys in prevention efforts.
“In the light of the above, we would be greatly honored to have you grace the occasion with your esteemed presence and to kindly inform you, that you will be a recipient of an Award as a result of your contributions in the space of Gender Based Violence”.
Father Arhedo has been in the forefront in the fight against gender based violence, irregular migration, harmful widow practices, reintegration of repatriated migrants into the society and other social vices.
