Maureen Okpe
In a move aimed at ensuring survivors of sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV) get justice, the governments of Kano and Kaduna states have officially created special courts tasked with handling such cases.
This groundbreaking development,disclosed on Thursday in a statement by Neem Foundation and made available to Global Sentinel, follows years of tireless advocacy by the organization through the Prevent and Protect Project, funded by Ford Foundation.
The creation of these specialised courts which included the appointment of dedicated judges, spotlights a significant progress in longstanding efforts aimed at eradicating all forms of violence against girls and women in Nigeria.
This program seeks to tackle the inherent systemic barriers which have long deprived survivors of fair, timely, and compassionate legal recourse. With the establishment of these new courts, Kaduna and Kano now offer a more efficient, sensitive, and dedicated mechanism for handling cases of SGBV, ensuring that justice is not only swift but also equitable.
Minoe Duamwan, Senior Programme Officer, Neem Foundation, emphasised the importance of this milestone. She said, “the establishment of designated GBV courts in our states of implementation is a significant step towards ensuring swift and fair justice for survivors.
“This milestone reaffirms our commitment to strengthening institutional responses and fostering a justice system that prioritises the rights and dignity of those affected by SGBV.”
Neem Foundation has long been at the forefront of advocacy for the rights of women and girls, particularly in communities where SGBV is prevalent.
The organisation has worked closely with government at all levels, religious and traditional leaders as well as Civil Society Organizations, to ensure that all forms of violence against girls and women is met with a coordinated and strong institutional response.
The creation of the special courts is part of a wider strategy aimed at improving the legal framework targeted at gender-based violence in Nigeria.
Beyond offering a more efficient and expedited path to justice, these courts will serve as a template for other parts of the country, establishing a standard for handling such cases with respect, care and urgency.