Amid escalating cases of gender-based violence (GBV)
in Imo State, the Imo State Committee on Ending Violence Against Women and
Girls (ISCEVAWG) has called on Governor Hope Uzodimma to establish a dedicated
agency to combat human rights violations, including rape, child abuse, and
domestic violence. The committee’s plea was made during a recent meeting in
Owerri, where members stressed that a regulatory agency is essential to protect
vulnerable groups, enforce the Violence Against Persons Prohibition (VAPP) Law,
and ensure justice for survivors of GBV.
Blessing Duru, Programme Director of Alliances for
Africa (AfA), highlighted the urgent need for government intervention, warning
that without concrete action, GBV will continue to affect the psychological and
social well-being of residents. Duru emphasized the importance of a
well-coordinated approach among service providers and law enforcement to create
a safe environment for victims and deter future incidents.
The Imo State Commander of the National Agency for the
Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP), Ernest Ogbu, echoed these
sentiments, pointing out that limited resources, legal delays, and logistical
obstacles within law enforcement have hindered progress in addressing GBV in
the state. He called for increased state support to streamline services and
reinforce legal protections.
The ISCEVAWG, funded by Alliances for Africa (AfA),
comprises members from civil society organizations, the Nigeria Bar
Association, the National Human Rights Commission, and the International
Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA). Together, they are pushing for a robust
response to the GBV crisis and a strengthened partnership between the
government and stakeholders to foster a safer environment for women and
children in Imo State.
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