The International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA) Nigeria, Kogi State chapter, has decried the spate of insecurity in Nigeria calling on both the Federal and State Government to focus on prevention and early intervention strategies that address the underlying causes of insecurity and violence against women and children.
They made their position known at the Kogi State FIDA week with the theme “the prevalence of insecurity and its Impacts on Women and Children” held in Lokoja. They suggested effective legal frameworks and enforcement mechanisms to combat insecurity and its impact on women and children.
Speaking at the occasion, the Kogi State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Muizudeen Abdullahi SAN observed that Insecurity is a pervasive problem in Nigeria that has far-reaching impacts on women and children.
The Commissioner, who was represented by F.O. Ekpa Esq. stated that “The country has been plagued by various forms of violence, including terrorism, insurgency, banditry, and inter-communal conflicts, which have created a climate of fear and uncertainty for its citizens.
“Women and children are often the most vulnerable and disproportionately affected by the consequences of insecurity and its prevalence in our communities which has led to a range of issues including but not limited to violence, displacement, “lack of access to essential services, and psychological trauma.
“Insecurity in Nigeria exacerbates existing social Inequalities and power imbalances, further marginalizing of women and children. In addition, the breakdown of social and family structures due to conflict can disrupt traditional support systems and expose women and children to further risks of exploitation and abuse.
“It is clear that insecurity not only threatens the safety and well-being of women and children but also hinders the socio economic development of our society as a whole. In order to address this prevalent menace, we must take a holistic approach that involves strengthening our security forces, improving intelligence gathering and sharing, and addressing the
root causes of insecurity such as poverty, unemployment, and marginalization”.
” The trauma experienced by women and children in insecure environments can have long-lasting effects on their mental health, affecting their ability to lead fulfilling and productive lives.
” It is unacceptable that women and children, who are among the most vulnerable members of our society, bear the brunt of the consequences of insecurity.
The Commissioner averred that he will ensure that the Child Rights Implementation Committee (CRIC) becomes functional to give enforcement to log thebKogi State Child Rights Law 2009.
He charged legal practitioners and advocates for women’s and children’s rights, to stand up against the prevalent menace of insecurity and its impact on women and children.
In her paper presentation Ojoma Rachael Haruna Esq opined that the government owes the citizenry the responsibility to adequately provide security in a given social formation.
” More worrisome is the fact that for undisclosed reasons, the Nigerian government seems unable to curb this threat despite pronouncement by various administrations. Nigeria currently appears to be grappling with security problems and these cuts through all regions. Residents particularly women and children now sleep with one eye open.
She concluded that in the living long run, security is our collective responsibility.
Earlier in her remarks, the Kogi State Chairperson of FIDA Barr. Lilian Ajuma Okolo, said ” we are united in our commitment to address a pressing issue that affects millions of lives, the prevalence of violence and it devastating impacts on women and children.
“We have come together at a time when Nigeria is grappling with the staggering consequences of violence, which disproportionately affects the most vulnerable members of our societies. Women and children are disproportionately affected by physical, emotional, and psychological abuse, often with long-lasting and devastating effects.
“Today , we are engaging in thought-provoking discussions, share experiences, and explore strategies to combat violence against women and children”.
“Our collective efforts aim to raise awareness, promote accountability, and support survivors of violence. We will also explore innovative solutions and best practices to prevent violence and protect the rights of women and children.
According to her, FIDA will continue to promote ,protect and preserve the rights of women in Kogi sate. “Let us unite our voices, expertise, and passion to create a world where everyone can live free from fear, violence, and discrimination.
The wife of Former Kogi State Governor, Barr. Amina Oyiza Yahaya Bello and grand patroness of FIDA Kogi ably represented by Barr Toyin Ndidi Taiwo Ojo in her remarks at the meeting disclosed that all hands must be on deck to combat the menace of insecurity in the Country as security was a collective responsibility of all.