A Non Governmental organization, Participation Initiative for Behavioral Change in Development (PIBCID) and Nigerian Women’s Trust Fund has called on women and vulnerable people in Kogi state whose rights are violated to always speak out.
The groups made the call on Thursday, during a Capacity Building Training on Violence Against Persons Prohibition (VAPP) Law for women in Felele area of Lokoja Local Government Area of Kogi State.
Speaking on the implications of the Law, the Programme Officer of PIBCID, Jimoh Olarewaju said the training is to expose the women to their rights, what to do and where to complain when their rights are violated in line with the VAPP Law.
Speaking further he said “The VAPP Law is very clear on rights Violation and what to do when such rights are violated. There are offences and corresponding consequences. The penalties ranges from imprisonment to fine of various sums when convicted.
” We have exposed them to this law, their rights. They are now aware of their rights and also know when these rights are being violated.
He stressed that the law was enacted by the National Assembly and assented to by president, adding that the law was also domesticated in Kogi state.
In their various submissions, the Director General, Kogi State Office of the Public Defender and Citizens’ Rights Commission, Bar. Musa Onogo Idris Esq. and Bar. Ameh Friday Esq. Senior Legal Officer/DG’s Legal Assistance, Facilitators of the programme, educated the women on their rights and the steps to take when such rights are violated.
They called on the women to always take steps to seek redress when their rights are violated, adding that the Kogi State Office of the Public Defender and Citizens’ Rights Commission was set up to address such issues, saying that they are always available to offer Free legal services in cases like that.
Speaking during the Capacity Building Training exercise, Mrs. Abdulkadiri Hajara, Mrs. Hajia Ramitu Muhammed Ndako and Memunat Morito, all praised the groups for the training.
They stressed that they are now familiar with the VAPP Law as it affects their rights, saying that they now know where to complain in the event of violation.
The Capacity Building Training was organized by PIBCID in collaboration with Nigerian Women’s Trust Fund.
Kogi State domesticated the Violence Against Persons Prohibition (VAPP) Law, in June, 2022, signifying its commitment to eliminating violence and promoting a culture of respect and accountability.
The law, addresses various forms of violence, including physical, emotional, and sexual abuse, and provides protection and remedies for victims.