By Aderogba George
The Director-General of the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP), Hajia Binta Adamu-Bello, has urged a renewed commitment to prosecute offenders and prevent Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV).
The NAPTIP boss, represented by the agency’s Director of Special Duties, Mr Effeh Ekirika, made the call on Tuesday during an event marking the 2024 16 Days of Activism in Abuja.
It was organised by Rubies Development Foundation (RDF), a non-governmental organisation.
The event also featured the launch of a book titled ‘Violence Against Persons: A Prism Perspective for a First Responder’, authored by Dr Magnus Emeh, NAPTIP’s Head of Rapid Response.
Bello urged all first responders to SGBV cases, as well as stakeholders, to intensify their efforts in ending Violence Against Persons (VAP).
According to her, the fight against gender-based violence demands unity, resilience, and unwavering dedication from everyone.
She emphasised that achieving these would lead to a safer and more respectful society.
Speaking on the book launch, the Director-General noted that it underscores the importance of strengthening the national system for effectively responding to SGBV survivors.
“The book empowers stakeholders to ensure perpetrators are held accountable, it serves as a call to action for all responders to deepen their commitment to combating SGBV”.
Mrs Lillian Akpet, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of RDF, said her organisation envisions a world where young people are empowered, with equal opportunities for both girls and boys to reach their full potential.
She explained that the foundation’s target beneficiaries include in-school and out-of-school youths, as well as street children in underserved rural and urban communities.
“Our work on GBV focuses on prevention, awareness creation, and educating young people on how to recognise the signs, report GBV, and employ defence and protection mechanisms.
“As we gather here today to join the global campaign to end violence against women and girls, the most pervasive human rights violation globally.
“Let us take a moment to reflect on the risks of violence faced by millions of women and girls of all ages, everywhere, especially in conflict zones and IDP camps.
“Across countries and cultures, women and girls are subjected to various forms of violence, including sexual violence, trafficking, abduction, intimate partner violence, physical assault, and harmful practices such as female genital mutilation (FGM) and child marriage.
“Nearly 30 years after the Beijing Declaration to end violence against women and girls, issues around GBV continue to persist,” Akpet said.
She commended Dr Magnus Emeh, the book’s author, for producing such a significant work, adding that it would further strengthen the commitment to the fight against SGBV.
The book presenter, Dr Sanusi Turaki said the publication would serve as a guide for first responders to SGBV cases, equipping them with the knowledge and tools needed to navigate their responsibilities.
“This book stands as a testament to the author’s commitment to justice and profound empathy for survivors of SGBV,” he said.
The first reviewer, Prof Victor Odoeme of Veritas University, Abuja, described the book as more than a theoretical expression, calling it an experiential account of cases the author has handled in his official capacity.
He stated that the book aims to raise awareness, promote understanding, advocate for change, and inspire the promulgation of stronger laws.
The second reviewer, Prof Zaruwa Moses, Acting Vice-Chancellor of Prime University, Abuja, noted that the book provides a comprehensive guide for first responders in addressing VAP cases.
The author, Dr Magnus Emeh, explained that he was inspired to write the book, which contains 16 chapters and 262 pages, to give hope that VAP can be eradicated if most Nigerians become ambassadors against it.
“There is a need for people to understand that they are first responders in cases of SGBV. They must learn to take action when they encounter such situations,” he said.
Emeh further highlighted that the book is divided into two sections: the first features 16 real-life cases of gender-based violence, while the second focuses on the criminal justice system.
NEWS AGENCY OF NIGERIA