Health
THE National Human Right Commission (NHRC) in Adamawa, has urged victims of Gender Based Violence (GBV) and their families to end the culture of silence, in order to bring perpetrators to justice.
Grace Mamza, NHRC acting Coordinator in Adamawa made the call at the community sensitization on ending violence against women, organized by Centre for Democracy and Development, on Wednesday in Yola.
She said that victims and their families, as well as community members should summon the courage to report any case of gender violence to the NHRC and other appropriate authorities.
“I appeal to you to respect your husbands for you to stay peacefully with them, but if anyone abuse you or molest your child, including rape and emotional abuse, report him.
“I assure you that we are going to follow up the case and ensure justice for survivors based on the facts of the case”, she said.
Hajiya Khadija Buba, the state Amira of Federation of Muslim Women of Nigeria, said Islam does not condone GBV, as such women should be agents of change in their communities.
She urged them to report GBV cases for action to be taken against perpetrators, to serve as deterrent to others.
“The culture of silence leads to frustration, blood pressure, stroke and loss of life among other challenges.
“The reason for you to speak out is to have solutions to your problems, not to separate relationships or something else”, Buba said.
Mrs Lumini Livingston, representing Women Wing of Christian Association of Nigeria, also explained that that Bible condemned any act of violence.
She advised the participants to actively understand the message and not allow to be abused without reporting and seeking for help.
According to her, the problem of GBV is persisting because the victims are refusing to speak about it and seek for help.
Livingston advised the participants to step down the sensitization to other women and children in their communities.
Aishatu Hamidu, of the Federation of International Women Lawyers, sensitized the women on existing laws in the state against GBV, and advised them to speak out when violated.
She said both the Violence against Persons Prohibition Law and the Child Protection Law have adequate provisions to punish perpetrators of GVB and protect victims. (NAN)
A.I
Tags: Hajiya Khadija Buba Mrs Lumini Livingston National Human Right Commission
