Edo State Government Begins A 16-Day campaign against GBV
Under the auspices of the State Government, the Edo State Ministry of Social Development and Gender Issues has launched the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence (GBV) campaign in the state in partnership with the Rule of Law and Anti-Corruption (RoLAC) and other stakeholders.
Speaking to pertinent stakeholders, the Functioning Permanent Secretary, Mrs. Joy Ihensenkien, underlined the value of teamwork in reducing GBV, pointing out that it impedes societal advancement.
“We cannot do this alone. We are calling on every family, organization, and individuals to take a stand against gender-based violence, challenge harmful practices, and support survivors. Together, let us break the culture of silence,” She stated.
The State program coordinator of RoLAC, Mr. Imonitien Omokhodion, stressed the importance of reporting cases of GBV as soon as they occur or are witnessed, and he promised that victims will receive adequate support and that those responsible for any GBV case will be brought to justice.
Dr. Festus Alenkhe, the Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Edo State Council, praised the Team for its tenacity and ongoing efforts in combating and raising awareness against GBV, particularly physical assaults.
Mrs. Ihensenkien reiterated the State Government’s commitment to supporting victims of GBV, citing the establishment of the Sexual Assault Referral Center (SARC) and the Vivian Center as well as the domestication of the Violence Against Persons Prohibition (VAPP) Law 2021.
He assured the Team that its message will be widely publicised.
Meanwhile, the Public Relations Officer of the National Council for Women Society, Edo State Chapter, Mrs. Taiwo Inumidu, warned that abusers who take pride in abusing women should refrain from such acts or face the consequences.
A road walk from the State Secretariat Complex via surrounding streets and noteworthy sites, such as the Vegetable Market, Oba Market, the NUJ secretariat, and others, was the high point of the sensitization activities.
The occasion is a part of the annual global 16 Days of Activism against GBV, which takes place from November 25 to December 10. The United Nations, Hart Land Alliance, and RoLAC are all supporting the effort. It seeks to foster a culture of zero tolerance for GBV in Edo State and to instill a sense of accountability and ownership among stakeholders.
