The House of Representatives has urged the National Orientation Agency (NOA) to raise awareness campaigns to educate the public on the Violence Against Person’s Act, VAP-A (2015) across the thirty-six (36) states and Federal Capital Territory, FCT.
The House also urged the Ministry of Budget and National Planning to increase funding to the Ministry of Women Affairs in order to establish survivors shelter homes ensuring they have access to necessary care and support.
It further urged the State Houses of Assembly to push for motions on the domestication and implementation of the VAPP Act (2015).
The resolutions followed the adoption of a motion “On The International Day For The Elimination Of All Forms Of Violence Against Women”, moved by Mrs. Kafilat Ogbara at plenary.
As part of the resolutions, the House notes that the International Day for the elimination of Violence Against Women is observed annually on November 25th, serving as a global reminder of the need to eradicate violence against women in all its forms.
“The resolution also notes that violence against women is a pervasive violation of human rights that affects millions of women and girls around the world, manifesting in physical, sexual, and psychological harm; Aware that the United Nations has identified the elimination of violence against women as a critical component of achieving gender equality and empowering all women and girls; Worried that systemic discrimination, cultural norms, and societal attitudes contribute to the perpetration of violence against women, necessitating comprehensive strategies for prevention and response;
“Also worried that violence against women and girls remain largely unreported due to the impunity, silence, stigma and shame surrounding it.
“Informed that Violence against Women continues to be an obstacle to achieving equality, development, peace as well as to the fulfilment of women and girls’ human rights. The promise of the sustainable development goals to leave no one behind cannot be fulfilled without putting an end to violence against women and girls.
“Also informed that it is crucial to raise awareness about the various forms of violence against women, including domestic violence, sexual harassment, trafficking, and harmful practices such as female genital mutilation and child marriage;
“Important that support services for survivors of violence, such as legal aid, counselling, and shelter must be strengthened and made accessible to all women in need;
Whereas, education and community engagement are essential in changing societal attitudes and promoting respect for women’s rights”. The motion said.
Lawmakers who contributed to the bill commended women for their contributions to the society.
The House in adopting the motion mandated the Committee on Women Affairs and Social Development to establish mechanisms to monitor progress on the effectiveness of the VAPP Act (2015).
Emmanuel Ukoh
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