‘Gender Based Violence Increasing In Taraba’

The wife of Taraba State Governor Mrs Agyin Kefas says recorded cases of gender based violence has persistently increased over the years in the state, saying  over 217 cases are recorded so far in 2023. 

She stated this in Jalingo, the state capital, while inaugurating the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence campaign.

The campaign she said is aimed to unite communities and families in bringing gender based violence to the greatest minimum in order to archive a greater life and equip men and boys as active supporters of the campaign. 

Mr Agyin said the partners, like National Human Right Commission , International Federation Of Women Lawyers, police and members of the health sector working to ensure the menace is removed from the society lack limited resources.

She urged stakeholders spread across the state to actively contribute to the implementation of the Violence Against Persons Prohibition Law.

This, she believed, can be achieved by ensuring the protection of the rights of women and children in Taraba State.

She called on traditional rulers, community leaders, religious figures, and politicians to ensure the protection of the rights of women and children in the state.

In her address, she highlighted that this annual global movement, from November 25 to December 10 (Human Rights Day), serves as a poignant reminder of the ongoing struggle for equality.

She emphasised the need for collective action to create a world free from violence and inequality.

Agyin urged the people of the state to raise their voices in unity against gender-based violence over the next 16 days.

She called for support from government officials, civil societies, religious leaders, and community heads, emphasising the importance of collaborative efforts in preventing gender-based violence and fostering a society that respects the dignity of every individual.

In her welcome address, Mary Sinjeh, the Commissioner of Women's Affairs in the state, highlighted the event's theme, "Unite and Invest to Prevent Violence Against Women and Girls," stating that it focuses on combating all forms of violence, particularly against women and girls in society.

Commending the commitment of the governor, Sinjeh announced the inclusion of the Gender-Based Violence Observatory (GBVO) in the 2024 budget, aiming to make Taraba a violence-free state.