Stakeholders Advocate Legal Framework to Combat Sexual and Gender-Based Violence in Nigeria

Stakeholders have urged state and federal governments to enact laws and implement drastic measures to deter sexual and gender-based violence in Nigeria.

They emphasized the need for a policy document from the government to effectively address the menace.

This call was made during a one-day training on sexual exploitation, abuse, and harassment held in Calabar. Social justice crusaders at the event highlighted the urgency of crafting legal enactments to tackle the situation.

Dr. Iwara Iwara, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Health, noted that gender-based violence often leads to health challenges for survivors.

He emphasized that his ministry is exploring viable solutions to address this issue. Represented by the gender focal officer in the Ministry, Mrs. Felicia Ayim, Dr. Iwara called for effective collaboration to tackle the challenges and secure a brighter future for women, girls, and vulnerable individuals in society.

The workshop aimed to develop a common framework for presentation and adoption by the government to curb the incessant cases of sexual exploitation and abuse.

Mercy Ejini, in her presentation, elaborated on various modes of sexual exploitation and harassment, stressing the need for concrete measures to check the excesses of perpetrators.

Deborah Asuquo, representing the International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA), advocated for a drastic enlightenment campaign to educate the public and the police about existing laws that can accelerate trial processes and guarantee conviction.

Participants at the workshop, including members of civil society groups, religious and traditional institutions, and youth groups, unanimously demanded a state policy framework tailored to address the prevailing challenge of sexual and gender-based violence.