Abuja: The Edo Government has announced a significant escalation in its efforts to educate women and girls about their legal rights and the avenues available for reporting abuse throughout the state. This initiative aims to empower women and enhance the state’s response to Gender-Based Violence (GBV).
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Eugenia Abdallah, emphasized the current administration’s commitment under Governor Monday Okpebholo to protect and empower women. This is being achieved through awareness campaigns, economic empowerment initiatives, and bolstered response systems for GBV.
Abdallah highlighted the comprehensive sensitization campaigns conducted in collaboration with community leaders, schools, religious organizations, town halls, and civil society groups. These campaigns are designed to educate women about their rights, the mechanisms for reporting abuse, and the available support services. The initiative also underscores awareness of the Violence Against Persons Prohibition (VAPP) Law, 2021, alongside other government-supported services for abuse survivors.
In Benin and Uromi, Sexual Assault Referral Centres (SARCs) provide integrated medical, legal, and psychosocial services, with another center under development in Auchi. These centers offer immediate medical attention, counseling, and legal assistance to survivors, including free medical examinations and documentation for legal proceedings. Emergency shelters are also available through partner organizations to ensure the safety of survivors.
The ministry collaborates with legal partners to offer free legal representation and assist survivors in obtaining protection orders. Psychosocial support is provided by trained counselors, with support groups aiding in reducing stigma and facilitating reintegration. Survivors also benefit from skills acquisition and vocational training provided at centers in Evbomodu, Uromi, and Igarra, along with start-up support and microfinance programs to encourage economic independence.
Child protection services are integrated into the system, offering counseling and intervention in unsafe home situations. The VAPP Law ensures strict confidentiality and protective measures against intimidation and victimization.
The government’s approach extends beyond prosecution, focusing on recovery, empowerment, and reintegration of survivors. Abdallah urged residents to report abuse promptly, assuring that support and legal remedies are readily available. Under the VAPP Law, survivors can access immediate medical care at SARCs without the need for a police report, with legal and counseling support following thereafter.
Abdallah reiterated the government’s dedication to expanding awareness of women’s rights and enhancing institutional support systems across Edo.