16days of activism: Edo state government renews commitment to ending Gender Based violence (GBV)
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16days of activism: Edo state government renews commitment to ending Gender Based violence (GBV)
By Osemwegie peace Temisan
The Edo State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to aligning with the Federal Government and international organizations in combating Gender-Based Violence (GBV).
This was disclosed by the Secretary to the state government, Barr. Umar-Musa at the grand finale of the 16days of activism against gbv held at the new festival hall, government house yesterday.
To achieve a gbv free society, the Secretary to the state government said the government seeks collaboration with state and non-state actors, traditional and religious institutions to raise awareness and speak out against GBV and harmful cultural practices.
He noted that, in 2023, 85,000 women and girls globally lost their lives to GBV, with Africa leading the statistics .
Barr. Ikhilo, highlighted the institutional frameworks, such as the Violence against Persons Prohibition law and a shelter for sexually assaulted victims, which have been established to combat GBV.
He said, “change is a process and that’s why we will continue to promote awareness until it gets to the grassroot and people are drawn by the awareness and begin to act appropriately”
On her part, the functioning Permanent Secretary, Ministry of social development and gender issues, Mrs. Joy Ihensenkien, emphasized the need for collective action to end Gender-Based Violence (GBV) in Edo State. While charging policymakers to prioritize protective frameworks and punishment for perpetrators, community leaders to dismantle harmful traditions and champion safe spaces, and NGOs and activists to amplify silenced voices and sustain advocacy efforts, she stressed that ending GBV is a personal responsibility, requiring individual choices, actions, and words to uphold dignity.
In a goodwill message, the state coordinator of Rule of law and anti corruption (RoLAC), Uche Nwoke noted that the conference served as a call to action, urging stakeholders, including the government, to prioritize SGBV prevention and response.
He said, with the new administration in place, RoLAC sees an opportunity to renew efforts and realign priorities.
Meanwhile, Hartland Alliance Ltd in a good will message by the senior state programme Manager, Dr. Eddichukwu Roderick commended the Edo State Ministry of Social Development and Gender Issues for their leadership in combating gender-based violence. Stating that the 16 Days of Activism campaign amplified voices and inspired action, laying the groundwork for transformative change. He therefore pledged solidarity to strengthen partnerships, advocate for survivors, and invest in sustainable solutions.
The State coordinator, International Organization for Migration(IOM) represented by Aigbeze Uhimwen reassured of its commitment to supporting meaningful projects that ensures the dream of a gbv society is actualized.
Further more, the keynote speaker, Deputy speaker, Edo State House of Assembly,Hon. Maria Edeko virtually gave a brief run down of the GBV interventions in Edo state, its achievements, sustainability and its future plans which includes the creation of more shelters for victims of gbv and pleaded with the various stakeholders to step up with their response system such that more people will be willing to speakup.
A five-man panel was organized to delibebrate on how to achieve the “Edo of our dreams : renewing the commitments to end violence against women and girls’’ . The panel consisted of key stakeholders such as the Nigeria Police force , a traditional Chief, representative of the Ministry of Justice ,the Manager of Sexual Assault referral centre(SARC) and Federation of muslim womens Associaation of Nigeria.
In the cause of the deliberation, Edo state commisioner of police c.p Iwo Remi represented by the officer in charge of gender issues, Mrs. Priscilla Ndudi sought for synergy amongst other stakeholders and urged victims to ensure prompt reports are made to avoid contamination of evidence which is needed for prosecution and justice.
The highlight of the event was the presentation of awards by the acting first lady, Mrs. Edesili Anani to outstanding individuals and NGO’s who have made remarkable difference in the fight for the eradication of gbv in the state.
Receivers of the awards were, Deputy speaker speaker,Edo State House of Assembly, RT, Hon.(Mrs) Maria Edeko, echoes of women in Africa, international federation of women lawyers(FIDA), Josemari Esccriva foundation, Justice development and peace commission(JDPC) foundation and society for the empowerment of women and children (SOTHAWACA) .
