Ogun Assembly assures NHRC of support in preventing Gender-Based Violence

Omobolaji Adekunle

The Speaker of the Ogun State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Oludaisi Elemide, has reaffirmed the Assembly’s commitment towards combating gender-based violence in the State through effective legislation and other quasi- judicial activities.

Elemide, represented by his Deputy, Rt. Hon. Bolanle Lateefat Ajayi, gave the assurance today during an advocacy visit by the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) to the State lawmakers at the Assembly Complex, Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta.

The Speaker noted that the Assembly remained committed towards ensuring unwavering support in addressing gender-based violence, while highlighting the importance of investing in awareness campaigns and educational programmes, particularly in rural areas, to sensitize communities about the dangers of gender-based violence and the legal protections available to victims.

He also promised the support of the State legislature in promoting initiatives that strengthen women’s rights and empower survivors of gender-based violence. emphasizing the need for a multi-sectoral approach involving government agencies, civil society organizations, and community leaders to combat this issue effectively.

Earlier in her remarks, the Coordinator of NHRC in the State, Mrs. Olayinka Odibe, said the visit was ino commemoration of the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence campaign; expressing deep concern over the alarming rates of violence against women and girls worldwide, including Nigeria.

She advocated effective legislative measures to strengthen women’s rights and invest in preventive and educational programmes towards addressing the root causes of gender-based violence.