By Armstrong Allahmagani
A Non-Governmental Organization based in Bauchi, Al-Wadata Lifeline Initiative, has demanded the full implementation of the Violence Against Persons Prohibition (VAPP) Law and the provision of adequate resources to prosecute offenders of Sexual and Gender Based Violence (SGBV) to serve as a deterrent to others.
The Executive Director of the Organization, Winifred Yusuf, made the demand in a speech at a Stakeholders' Rally on VAPP Law Enforcement and SGBV Prosecution in Dass Local Government Area of Bauchi State.
Al-Wadata Lifeline Initiative, which supports women’s rights as well as working to promote the development of the healthcare delivery system in Nigeria, with emphasis on supporting, empowering and providing access to quality health care and education to vulnerable population especially the girl child, women with special needs, orphans, children and Vulnerable pregnant women, is part of the NGOs implementing the Aspire Project by Plan International funded by Global Affairs Canada.
Yusuf who was represented by the Health Officer of the Organization, Mrs. Rifkatu Ibrahim Joga, described SGBV as a personal tragedy for the victims and a societal wound that undermines the collective security, stability and development of the society adding that every act of violence against a person represents a failure to protect the most vulnerable in the society.
She said that despite the fact that the VAPP Law exists to address these, implementation remains a big challenge.
"It is with a deep sense of purpose that we gather here today to address an issue that has long affected the dignity, safety and well-being of countless individuals in our communities. We are here to demand the full enforcement of the Violence Against Persons Prohibition (VAPP) Law and to advocate for the provision of adequate resources for the prosecution of offenders of Sexual and Gender Based Violence (SGBV).
"SGBV is not just a personal tragedy for the victims-it is a societal wound that undermines out collective security, stability and development. Every act of violence against a person represents a failure to protect the most vulnerable among us. The VAPP Law exists to correct this; it is a legal framework designed to protect all persons against various forms of violence, to provide justice to survivors and to hold perpetrators accountable.
*However, despite the existence of this law, implementation remains a challenge. Survivors continue to face barriers to accessing justice-barriers such as the lack of resources for medical examinations, laboratory tests and the investigative processes crucial for prosecuting offenders.
"We are here today to say: Enough is enough! The time to act is now. We must move beyond words and commit to tangible actions," she stated.
To this end, she charged policy makers to ensure full implementation of the VAPP Law by strengthening the capacity of law enforcement agencies to respond effectively to SGBV cases.
Yusuf also called for the allocation of adequate resources and the provision of free laboratory tests, medical examinations and other essential services for survivors to support effective prosecution.
Additionally, she said the communities must be engaged by fostering community-driven advocacy and awareness programmes to break the culture of silence around SGBV.
"To our traditional and community leader, we urge you to be champions of change within your communities. Your voices carry immense influence-use them to promote zero tolerance for a form of violence.
"To every individual here, remember: Protecting our communities from SGBV is a collective responsibility. When we stand together, we send a clear message that violence has no place in our society. Let us rise to this challenge with courage, commitment and compassion. Let our rally today mark a turning point-a moment when Dass LGA stood up for justice, dignity and the protection of its people.
"Together, we can create a future where every individual lives free from violence and where justice is not a privilege it a right for all," the Executive Director said.
Responding while receiving the NGO in his Palace, the Emir of Dass, Alhaji Usman Billiyaminu-Oathman, commended them for the initiative.
Represented by Auwal Biliyaminu-Oathman, the Emir assured them of his support to their cause and the full implementation of the VAPP Law.
"I assure you that anywhere there is a report of such case, we will investigate and anyone found culpable will be made to face the full wrath of the law. My doors are always open to receive and support you in whatever way we can do that your objectives will be achieved," he assured.
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