The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, Ph.D, led the leadership and members of the House on an advocacy walk against gender-based violence on Monday. This event was part of the 16 Days Activism Against Gender-based Violence, which aims to eliminate all forms of violence against women and girls.
The walk, which started at the National Assembly Complex, ended at the headquarters of the Nigeria Police Force, where the House presented a petition to the Inspector-General of Police, Mr. Kayode Egbetokun. The petition demanded proper investigation and prosecution of violence against women and girls.
In his address, Speaker Abbas emphasized the need for collective action against gender-based violence. He stated that the National Assembly will work closely with relevant authorities, particularly law enforcement, to curb this trend. Abbas also announced that the House will play an active role in the next national action plan against violence against women.
The Speaker declared that the 10th House is committed to reducing, if not eliminating, all forms of violence against women and girls. He emphasized that the House will ensure that pro-poor policies are enacted to significantly reduce the incidences of violence against women, children, and girls.
The advocacy walk was attended by prominent participants, including the Minister of Women Affairs and Social Development, Imaan Suleiman-Ibrahim, and the Minister of Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande. The event marked the beginning of the 16-Day Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, which will feature various activities over the next 16 days.
The House’s commitment to ending gender-based violence is a significant step towards creating a safer and more equitable society for all. As Speaker Abbas noted, “this day is the day of history,” and it marks the beginning of a collective effort to eliminate violence against women and girls.
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