FIDA Edo State Seeks Collaboration with Office of the First Lady to Protect Women, Children

By Adesuwa Ehimuan

The Coordinator Office of the First Lady, Mrs Edesili Okpebholo Anani has called for legal reforms to remove systemic barriers suppressing the voices and aspiration of women. She made the call during a familiarization visit by The International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA), Edo State Chapter.

She underscored the urgent need for legal reforms, stating, We need to review many of our laws as some are ineffective. Justice delayed is justice denied. For instance, the case of the Okpella girl who was raped on December 24, 2024, is still pending. Such cases should be expedited.

Mrs Anani reiterated that Edo State Governor, His Excellency, Senator Monday Okpebholo, remains deeply committed to protecting women and children, assuring that all necessary measures will be taken to safeguard their rights.

Earlier the delegation, led by the Chairperson of FIDA Edo State, Mrs. Francisca Elema, expressed appreciation to Her Excellency for her commitment to the welfare and well-being of the people of Edo State. Mrs. Elema highlighted that, in line with Section 27 of the FIDA Constitution, the Chief Judge, the Wife of the Governor, and the Attorney General automatically serve as Patron and Matron of FIDA.

She further emphasized FIDA’s vision of promoting a just and egalitarian society by leveraging legal frameworks to protect indigent women and children. Mrs. Elema noted that all FIDA services are pro-bono but acknowledged the organization’s pressing challenges. These include an unfinished building project on land allocated by the Edo State Government, non-functional vehicles, and funding constraints that hinder the implementation of planned programs. She appealed to Her Excellency for support in addressing these challenges.

Mrs. Anani appreciated FIDA Edo State for appointing her as their Matron and pledged her full support in the fight against gender-based violence.

In other engagement, the Federation of Muslim Women’s Association of Nigeria (FOMAWAN) Edo State led by their Chairperson,Hajiya Audu Usenat Esohe paid a courtesy visit to her Excellency, The Coordinator, Office of the first Lady, Mrs Edesili Anani to seek way of partnership.