In a concerted effort to combat Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV) and enhance the efficacy of law enforcement response, CYDPAN, a prominent non-governmental organization dedicated to rural development, teamed up with the Akwa Ibom State Gender Based Violence Management Committee and the Sexual and Gender-Based Violence Response Department of the Akwa Ibom State Ministry of Justice. Together, they undertook a pivotal initiative to sensitize officers at the Mbo Divisional Police Station in Akwa Ibom Nigeria on Tuesday, March 12, 2024.
During the session, Mr. Robert Boniface delivered a succinct lecture and emphasized the importance of raising awareness regarding SGBV mitigation and response frameworks. He underscored the need for a collaborative effort among government agencies to bolster the response to SGBV cases, particularly in rural communities of Akwa Ibom. Citing prevalent cultural norms and procedural shortcomings as barriers to reporting and addressing SGBV, Boniface urged urgent action to enhance protection for women and girls. Boniface’s impassioned address served as a poignant reminder of the collective responsibility to create a society free from violence and discrimination, where women and girls can thrive without fear.
Barrister Faith Asuquo of the Sexual and Gender-Based Violence Response Department of the Akwa Ibom State Ministry of Justice elucidated the provisions of the Violence Against Persons Prohibition Act (VAPP Law), highlighting the various forms of violence against individuals and its accompanied penalties. Asukwo emphasized Nigeria’s urgent need to address its status as one of the least safe places for women globally. The VAPP law, she asserted, serves as a critical legal tool aimed at affording maximum protection to victims and administering justice to offenders.
Barrister Eno Jacob highlights Women and Girls’ Vulnerability to Sexual and Gender-Based Violence in her compelling lecture on the Legal Framework and Police Responsibilities outlined in the VAPP law. She stated that The VAPP law provides a critical framework for addressing SGBV and ensuring justice for survivors,” she asserted. “It is imperative that law enforcement agencies, particularly the police, are equipped with the necessary knowledge and resources to respond sensitively and effectively to cases of SGBV.” She further emphasized the pivotal role of the VAPP law in providing comprehensive legal protections and recourse for survivors of SGBV and the crucial responsibility of law enforcement agencies, particularly the police, in effectively enforcing the provisions of the law.
In his remarks, SP Emmanuel Etim, the DPO of Mbo Divisional Police Station expressed gratitude towards the organization for its efforts in addressing issues related to sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV). He commended the organization for its commitment to combating SGBV and supporting survivors within the community. The DPO emphasized the importance of collaboration between law enforcement agencies and non-governmental organizations in tackling SGBV effectively. He highlighted the significant role played by the organization in raising awareness, providing support to survivors, and advocating for justice.
Furthermore, the DPO appealed to the government to consider establishing a Sexual Assault Referral Centre (SARC) closer to the community. He stressed that having a SARC center nearby would enhance effectiveness and efficiency in responding to cases of SGBV, ensuring timely access to critical services and support for survivors. The DPO’s remarks underscored the importance of multi-sectoral approaches and community engagement in addressing SGBV comprehensively. His call for government action reflects the urgent need to strengthen support systems and improve access to justice for survivors of sexual violence.
The collaborative effort between CYDPAN and Akwa Ibom agencies aims to bridge gaps in the policing of SGBV cases, enhance awareness, and foster a coordinated response to SGBV in rural communities. By equipping law enforcement officers with the knowledge and tools necessary to effectively address SGBV, the initiative strives to create safer environments for women and girls across Akwa Ibom. This initiative serve as a call to action for stakeholders across sectors to collaborate in combating SGBV, promoting gender equality, and upholding the rights and dignity of all individuals.
