Benue State Government Recommits To Combating Gender-Based Violence

By Aloysius Umalo, Makurdi

The Benue State Government has launched a training program aimed at preventing Gender Based Violence (GBV), in response to the high number of reported cases in the state by educating key stakeholders including law enforcement officers.

Hosted by the Benue State Government in collaboration with the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Disaster Management and the Bureau of Homeland Security, the 4-day training program, focusing on Gender-Based Violence (GBV), sexual exploitation/abuse, and human trafficking received support from the International Organization for Migration (IOM), USAID, and the Rapid Respond Fund.

The Commissioner of Humanitarian Affairs and Disaster Management, Mr. Aondowase Kunde, emphasized the importance of protecting and providing justice for GBV victims.

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Ms. Mediatrice Barengayabo, Head of the IOM Benue Sub-Office, highlighted the critical need for law enforcement responses to GBV during crises like flooding, underscoring individuals’ increased vulnerabilities and risks.

Various speakers, including representatives from UNICEF, WHO, NAPTIP, and the Bureau for Homeland Security, emphasized the importance of assisting GBV victims and working together to eliminate this harmful behavior in the state.

The training also intends to prepare 200 participants from various security organizations for the upcoming flood disaster predicted to impact Benue.