By Maureen Okpe
The Women Advocate Research and Documentation Center (WARDC) has urged the federal government to show more commitment to the implementation of the Violence Against Persons Prohibition Act (VAPP) Laws across the country, stressing also the need to invest resource as a sign of political will to Curb Root Causes Of Gender-Based Violence (GBV).
It’s Founder and Executive Director Dr. Abiola Akiyode-Afolabi, made the call in a statement made available at the weekend as the organization joins the global community in observing the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, with the theme “UNiTE – Invest to Prevent Violence against Women & Girls”.
The statement noted that the 16 Days of Activism which begins from November 25th to December 10th, symbolizes a collective call to action against one of the most pervasive violations of human rights – gender-based violence.
“This year’s theme underscores the imperative to invest in proactive measures that can effectively prevent violence directed at women and girls,” the statement said.The statement, harped on the importance of fostering a world where every woman and girl can live free from fear, intimidation, and violence, adding that investing in prevention means addressing root causes, dismantling harmful stereotypes, and empowering individuals and communities to actively reject violence.
“Through our unwavering commitment to advocacy, Legal aid, research and documentation, we strive to shed light on the intricate dynamics of gender-based violence, providing valuable insights that inform policies and interventions.
“By supporting education, advocacy, and awareness initiatives, we contribute to the creation of a society where equality is not just an ideal but a lived reality,” the statement added.
WARDC therefor called on all stakeholders to join hands and working towards achieving lasting solutions to the menace of gender based violence in the country.
“We invite the community, stakeholders, and partners to join hands with us in this collective endeavor to build a world where every woman and girl can thrive without the fear of violence.
“Together, let us UNiTE and invest in a future where the rights and dignity of women and girls are upheld, and gender-based violence becomes an intolerable relic of the past”.
