The Kaduna State Government remains resolute in its commitment to combat gender-based violence through stringent measures outlined in the Violence Against Persons Prohibition Law of 2018, the Commissioner of the Ministry of Human Services and Social Development, Mrs. Rabi Salisu, declared.
She emphasised the need for collective action during a press briefing in Kaduna, saying, “These measures, including surgical castration for male offenders and bilateral salpingectomy for their female counterparts, underscore our determination to create a safer environment for women and girls in our state.”
Mrs. Salisu drew attention to the alarming increase in reported cases of violence against women and girls since the enactment of the VAPPL in December 2018, citing 832 cases in 2023 alone, according to data from the National Gender-Based Violence Data Situation Room.
The commissioner highlighted the significance of the 16-day campaign, stating, “The Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence from November 25th to December 10th provide a crucial opportunity to mobilise action globally and bring attention to the urgent need for change.”
Addressing challenges in the implementation of the VAPPL, Mrs. Salisu outlined obstacles such as slow uptake by prosecutors, pressure for out-of-court settlements, and inadequate awareness among citizens and service providers.
“To effectively combat gender-based violence, we must strengthen our justice system, improve GBV case findings, and provide essential services to survivors, enhancing access to these crucial resources,” she stressed.
In response to coordination issues and data management challenges, Mrs. Salisu urged, “It is imperative to address the difference in reporting tools and the upload of data on the National GBV dashboard. Bridging these gaps will contribute significantly to our collective efforts to end gender-based violence in our community.”
Follow the AkweyaTV channel on WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029Va7m7dvJuyA7h5XMc22i
