FIDA Nigeria has called on relevant stakeholders, government agencies, security agencies, to push for the adoption and effective implementation of the Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Act, 2015 (VAPP Act).
FIDA Nigeria made this call in a Press Release Signed by the National President of FIDA Nigeria Mrs Victoria Inima as part of the activities lined up by FIDA Nigeria to marks the beginning of the 16 days of activism against Gender-Based Violence campaign, 2017 in commemoration of the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women.
The theme for this year’s celebration is “Leave no one behind: End violence against women.” The event begins today, 25th November and would run until the 10th December, 2017 with all focus on raising awareness on issues of violence against women and girls, and mobilizing people to bring about change.
According to the press release; “It is a huge cause for concern that despite efforts to put a stop to violence against women and girls in our societies, women are still subjected to all forms of violence.”
“Reports from FIDA Nigeria branches across the country reveal a high number of incidences of violence against women on a daily basis. These Acts include and are not limited to rape, domestic violence, sexual harassment, reproductive coercion, female infanticide, prenatal sex selection, obstetric violence, and mob violence, detention of pregnant women, as well as harmful traditional practices such as female genital mutilation, marriage by abduction and forced marriage, maltreatment of widows and honor killings for ritual rites. Other forms of violence organized by criminal networks include trafficking in women and forced prostitution. Many of our women are victims and/or survivors of these acts.”
Mrs. Inuma noted; “FIDA Nigeria condemns every form of violence meted on our women.”
“We will continue to carry out campaigns to sensitize the public and government on the need to key into the global call for violence-free societies for all women by 2030.”
She calls on stake holders to ensure effective implementation of the VAPP stating that the legislation addresses all forms of violence. She further noted that tt is a legal instrument that, if diligently utilized would improve the current situation
“As we campaign for our women these 16 days and beyond, let us ensure that we create wide awareness on provisions of the VAPP Act and encourage its use in our courts.”