Story from Sa’adatu MAINA, Damaturu
On November 26, 2020, the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) enjoined the Yobe State lawmakers to pass laws that would protect and promote the right of women in the state.
Labaran Babangida, the NHRC State Coordinator made the call on Thursday while addressing Yobe State House of Assembly members in Damaturu.
“Our main purpose for coming to the house with other civil society organisations feeder and NBA is to lobby before the house to pass laws that will protect and promote the rights of women in the state.”
Babangida also urged the house to look into challenges that served as hurdles in access to justice.
READ ALSO: Gender Based Violence: Reps call on FG, States, LGs to seek way out
“This will give room for the rules of law and fundamental human rights of citizens to function fully in the state.”
He expressed gratitude to the house for passing laws such as the Child Protection Act, which according to him was before the state executive for accenting.
In his remarks, Ahmed Mirwa, the speaker Yobe State House of Assembly highlighted some factors related to gender-based violence.
According to him, the life-threatening problem was worsened by poverty, natural hazards or conflicts, resulting from the breakdown of family and community protection structures among other factors.
Mirwa, represented by Buba Kalallawa enjoined the general public to report cases of gender-based violence to the law enforcement agents.
“Victims or their relatives should not succumb to out of court settlement because doing so will give room for the perpetrators to continue committing the offences.”, Mirwa said.
He said the menace required strong public enlightenment and education at schools, social clubs, cultural groups, gatherings, churches, mosques and other social gatherings.
He said the House will not relent in its effort to end the devastating menace through legislations.
“I wish to assure you that the House is willing to partner with you in your effort to end prevailing cases of rape and sexual gender-based violence in the state,” Mirwa added.
