The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has called on stakeholders and law enforcement agencies to strengthen their efforts in combating Gender-Based Violence (GBV) in the territory.
The Abuja administration is urging a united front against Gender-Based Violence (GBV) in the capital territory.
A roundtable discussion convened by the FCTA Women’s Affairs Secretariat brought together stakeholders and law enforcement representatives. Dr. Adedayo Benjamins-Laniyi, the head of the Women’s Affairs Secretariat, stressed that defeating GBV requires a collaborative effort from all sectors, including government agencies, civil society organizations (CSOs), community-based organizations (CBOs), faith-based organizations, and the private sector. Each group brings unique strengths and resources to the table. For instance, NGOs can provide expertise in victim support and counselling, while faith-based organizations can play a crucial role in promoting gender equality within their communities. The private sector can contribute through public awareness campaigns and by fostering safe and inclusive workplaces.
The meeting proposed harsher punishments for perpetrators to deter future offences. Stakeholders believe that stricter sentences will send a strong message of deterrence and encourage survivors to come forward and report abuse. They also discussed the importance of ensuring effective enforcement of existing laws and policies related to GBV.
Participants highlighted the urgent need for increased collaboration among government agencies, NGOs, and faith-based organizations. A multi-pronged approach is essential to effectively address GBV. For example, government agencies can provide funding and resources for shelters and legal aid services, while NGOs can offer counselling and skills training programs for survivors. Faith-based organizations can work to change attitudes and norms that condone GBV.
The discussion underscored the importance of enhanced protection for people with disabilities, who are especially vulnerable to GBV. Stakeholders called for increased training for law enforcement and service providers on how to identify and respond to GBV cases involving people with disabilities. Additionally, they emphasized the need for accessible reporting mechanisms, such as sign language interpretation services and Braille resources, to ensure that people with disabilities can safely report abuse.
Stakeholders called for increased funding to support anti-GBV campaigns and initiatives. Adequate funding is essential for implementing effective prevention and response programs. Funds can be used to support shelters, legal aid services, training programs, and public awareness campaigns. Public-private partnerships can be a valuable source of funding for anti-GBV efforts.
A Nigerian Police representative acknowledged their ongoing efforts to prosecute GBV offenders. The police representative highlighted their commitment to investigating GBV cases thoroughly and bringing perpetrators to justice. They also spoke about the challenges they face, such as understaffing and lack of resources.
They concurred with the call for stricter sentences for sex crimes. Police believe that harsher punishments would deter potential offenders and encourage more survivors to report abuse.
The police requested additional resources, particularly funding, to bolster their anti-GBV initiatives. Increased funding would allow them to improve training for officers on handling GBV cases, expand outreach programs in communities, and invest in technology to improve case investigations.
The FCTA is firmly committed to combating GBV in Abuja. Through a collaborative approach, all stakeholders can create a safer environment for everyone. This will require stronger partnerships between government agencies, civil society, the private sector, and faith-based organizations. It also necessitates harsher deterrents through stricter punishments and increased support for vulnerable populations, such as people with disabilities. Finally, bolstering law enforcement’s capacity through additional resources and training is crucial for effectively investigating and prosecuting GBV cases.
