We’ll end sexual, gender based violence – Dame Okowa

By Nosa Akenzua, Asaba

The wife of Delta state governor, Dame Edith Okowa, on Monday, said no effort would be spared in completely stamping out sexual and gender based violence from the state.
Dame Okowa who is the founder of 05 Initiative, disclosed this at Government House, Asaba, during the ceremony of an advocacy programme against sexual and gender- based violence organised by Orange Brigade in partnership with Delta State Government’s Girl Child Empowerment Office.
She advised victims of sexual and gender violence to speak up, and affirmed that the state government has enacted laws to protect the rights of girls, boys and others who may be exposed to abuse.
While commending Orange Brigade for championing the campaign against sexual and gender violence, she called on girls not to see their gender as a barrier to the realisation of their dreams.
“Nobody can direct your destiny, you should be serious in your academic activities to actualise your God-given potentials in life.
“In Delta State, we don’t tolerate sexual and gender based violence. There are laws put in place by the state government to prosecute anybody caught perpetrating the criminal act (sexual and gender based violence).
“The state government is working with the police and other relevant security agencies to ensure that perpetrators of the criminal act are brought to book.
“When you hear something, say something and when you see something, say something. Young girls should not allow themselves to be intimidated or belittled,” the governor’s wife said.
Dame Okowa who was inducted as Squadron Leader of Orange Brigade in Delta State, pledged to join hands with stakeholders in the collective fight against abuse of any child in the state and the country.