By Maimuna Yusuf
the International Federation of Women Lawyers, Nigeria (FIDA) Kano State Branch, Tuesday, led civil society organizations, women groups, and female journalists to walk in condemnation of the growing incidence of domestic and sexual violence to government house, Kano, advocating for stricter punishment for perpetrators.
Kano FIDA Chairperson, Barr. Biliksu Ibrahim Suleiman said they are commemorating the day in line with the United Nations’ declaration against gender-based violence, adding that the walk is aimed at calling on all stakeholders and government to make concerted efforts towards stopping the violence.
“The violence can and must be prevented. Stopping this violence starts with believing survivors, adopting comprehensive and inclusive approaches that tackle the root causes, transform harmful social norms, and empower women and girls.
“With survivor-centered essential services across policing, justice, health, and social sectors, and sufficient financing for the women’s rights agenda, we can end gender-based violence,” she added.
At the government house, the Chief Security Officer, SP Mu’awuyya Muhammad received the FIDA procession on behalf of Governor Abdullahi Umar Ganduje and promised that government will continue do everything possible to protect women and children in the state.
Also speaking at the event, the Chairperson, Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ) in Kano, Bilkisu Ado Zango said: “We are here to voice against the drug, rape, and gender-based violence of all forms; research has shown that girls and women are most vulnerable to these abuses.
“Offenders should be adequately punished to serve as a deterrent to others.
“We are also calling on stakeholders, parents, and guardians to always be mindful of their wards, where they, what they do, and who they associate with.”
She said social media is also contributing to the rising cases of domestic violence and moral decadence, though if it is properly used, it has a great advantage to personal and economic growth.
“It is our prayer that Her Excellency, Dr. Hafsat Ganduje, and the present administration, the Police, and the judiciary will support our call to ensure the crime is brought to the barest minimum,” she added.
