By Stanley Onyekwere
The Mandate Secretary for FCT Women Affairs Secretariat, Mrs. Adedayo Benjamins-Laniyi has called on all Nigerians to join the orange the world movement against Sexual and Gender Based Violence (SGBV).
Benjamins-Laniyi noted that the orange the world 16 days activism is not an activity for a number of days; but a movement that should be embraced by everyone, according to a statement from Deputy Director, Information FCTA, Josie Mudasiru.
The Secretary had earlier joined the Minister Of Women Affairs And Social Development, Barrister Uju Kennedy- Ohaneye, the FCT Senator, Senator Ireti Kingibe in a rally from Eagle’s Square to the Unity Fountain, where the 16 days of activism was declared opened.
While encouraging all hands to be on deck to ensure an end to SGBV, the Secretary said everyone is affected by the menace.
“The Market Women, the office Women, Grassroots Women in all the 6 Area Councils, and Men, Our He4She should support this movement for zero tolerance to SGBV.
“Today begins 16 Days of activism against Gender-Based Violence, which the United Nations has declared as a time for women and institutions to unit and invest, in order to prevent Gender-Based Violence against women and girls.
“The focus on the Federal Capital Territory today, has been a significant synergy with the Distinguished Senator Ireti Kingibe, representing the FCT, in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Women Affairs, to host in Abuja, as the face of Nigeria, a message resonating from the six FCT Area Councils and 17 Chiefdoms”, she stressed
She therefore encouraged residents to support the Minister Of FCT, Barrister Nyesom Wike and Minister of State, Dr. Mariya Mahmoud in their fight against Gender based discrimination by participating in the line up of Activities to raise awareness on the menace of SGBV.
President of Women In Politics Forum ( WIPF) Barrister Ebere Efendu said women should unite against sexual and domestic violence as well as against low representation in government.
Similarly, the Senior Special Adviser to The President on Community Engagement ( North Central), Mrs. Abiodun Essiet called on the National Assembly to pass all Gender bills and also fund the Police Force in order to boost the prosecution of SGBV violators.
