Abuja:The Association of Wives of Federal Capital Territory Traditional Rulers (WOFCTTRA) is intensifying efforts to eliminate Gender-Based Violence (GBV) in rural communities across the territory.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, WOFCTTRA President and Queen of Abaji Chiefdom, Hajiya Hauwa Adamu, has highlighted the association’s initiative to leverage the moral authority of traditional palaces to protect victims, enforce penalties against offenders, and break the silence on domestic abuses.
Adamu pointed out that GBV cases in rural areas were often dismissed due to familial ties, with male negotiators excusing perpetrators. She emphasized the need for accountability, saying that offenders should not go unpunished, allowing victims to regain their dignity.
WOFCTTRA has successfully advocated for the implementation of strict sanctions by traditional rulers in their domains. In Abaji Area Council, penalties are now in place to deter harassment, leading to a noticeable reduction in cases.
The association has also set up safe spaces within palaces to support and counsel GBV survivors. In addition to addressing GBV, WOFCTTRA has been active in promoting maternal health, launching safe motherhood campaigns, and collaborating with health professionals to educate rural communities.
Adamu underscored the importance of equipping rural health facilities and urged healthcare personnel to be more welcoming to rural patients. She also condemned early child marriages and advocated for girls’ education, emphasizing economic independence as a defense against abuse.
The group was established to connect rural women with traditional palaces and the government, achieving encouraging results so far. Adamu commended Dr. Adedayo Benjamins-Laniyi and UN Women for their support in capacity-building and community outreach initiatives.