Abuja: The Association of Wives of FCT Traditional Rulers (WOFCTTRA) has called for stronger community-based justice mechanisms to promote gender equity and social inclusion across communities in the territory. The President, Hajiya Hauwa Adamu, made the call on Thursday in Abuja at a one-day stakeholders’ workshop. The workshop had the theme, ‘Promoting Gender Equity and Social Inclusion through Community-Based Justice Mechanisms.’
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Adamu emphasized that traditional institutions occupied a strategic position in addressing the needs of vulnerable groups, including women, children, persons with disabilities, and the elderly, who often sought justice through community structures. She noted that these vulnerable individuals frequently approach community leaders as their first point of contact for justice, sometimes avoiding police or hospitals due to fear or distrust.
Adamu highlighted the unique role of traditional rulers and their spouses in influencing positive social values, resolving disputes, and promoting peaceful coexistence. She asserted that when justice is fair and inclusive, it strengthens communities, makes families more resilient, and fosters sustainable development.
Furthermore, Adamu explained that gender equity and social inclusion aim to provide equal opportunities and access to justice for all, irrespective of gender, age, disability, or social status. She stressed the importance of participation in society and accessing justice with dignity and respect for everyone.
In addition to Adamu’s remarks, Mrs. Beatrice Mube, Head of Disability Unit of the FCT Women Affairs, addressed the limitations that traditional beliefs and systemic gaps impose on access to justice, healthcare, and public services for persons with disabilities. Mube emphasized the necessity of recognizing disability within the broader context of gender-based violence, as individuals with disabilities face unique forms of abuse and discrimination.
Mube also expressed concern over inadequate maternal healthcare support for women with disabilities, highlighting that communication gaps in hospitals often lead to misdiagnosis and poor treatment outcomes. She called for increased support for families of children with disabilities and urged society to eliminate stigma, ensuring access to education and care.
The President of Dorathy Njemanze Foundation, Dorathy Njemanze, suggested practical ways to deliver traditional justice, emphasizing the importance of confidentiality in handling sensitive cases, particularly those involving sexual and gender-based violence. She recommended mediation training for individuals working closely with traditional institutions to enhance dispute resolution quality at the community level.
Njemanze also urged traditional leaders and community members to reject out-of-court settlements in cases of rape and child marriage, warning that such practices often deny victims justice. She called on traditional institutions, community leaders, and stakeholders to adopt inclusive practices that protect victims, uphold human dignity, and strengthen community-based justice systems.
The News Agency of Nigeria reports that the initiative is being implemented in partnership with the MacArthur Foundation and the Resource Centre for Human Rights and Civic Education (CHRICED).