By 
By Abiodun OBA
The Fame Foundation has called on stakeholders to ensure a Nigeria free of Gender-Based Violence (GBV).
The Executive Director of FAME Foundation, Arabinrin Aderonke Ogunleye-Bello made the call at a press conference in Abuja to kick start the 16 Days of Activism against the menace.
She called on the Governors of 34 states of the Federation and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) to ensure the implementation of the Violence Against Persons Prohibition (VAPP) Act 2015 to curb the incessant cases of gender-based violence in the polity.
Ogunleye-Bello argued that the implementation of the laws would help in reducing the menace of violence, especially GBV, ensure perpetrators are prosecuted, provide support to survivors and protect the rights of women, children and men.
The Foundation Director urged security agencies to ensure that perpetrators of the dastard act are made to face the full wrath of the law.
Ogunleye-Bello noted: “We want the Nigeria police, security agencies that they don’t send away victims that come to complain back home. Enough of saying the community should take care of it. There are a lot of begging and giving of money to victims.
“The money cannot erase the trauma. Please our security agencies let us work together by ensuring Nigeria is free of GBV. We want justice and necessary disciplinary action to be taken against people that perpetrate this crime.
“And we are also begging Governors in Nigeria. There is a VAPP bill too. Some states have passed the VAPP bill and is yet to be implemented. Can you please start working on the implementation so that we can get justice for victims.”
She explained that the resolve to focus on boys and men in the campaign was aimed at creating safe spaces for survivors to speak out and seek support.
She said the campaign themed, “Unite! Invest to Prevent Violence against Women and Girls” Gender-Based Violence, running from November 25th to December 10th underscores the pressing need for collective action and investment to eradicate gender-based violence against women and girls.
“Gender-based violence is a widespread problem affecting individuals irrespective of gender. It thrives in silence, which is often fuelled by societal norms and shame, girls and women are often the target but men are victims too.
“Survivors often carry the weight of their experiences, leading to a cycle of trauma. We need to understand that the impact of GBV transcends physical scars, it deeply affects one’s mental health and overall well-being. By educating, empowering, and supporting survivors, we pave the way for a more equitable and just society.”
Ogunleye-Bello pointed out that, we must unite men, women, boys, and girls to stand against GBV. Silence perpetuates the cycle, it’s time for us all to lend our voices, listen without judgment, and support survivors in their journey toward healing.
She stressed the need for collective effort in the fight against GBV, urging individuals and organizations to unite and advocate for a world where everyone can live free from fear, discrimination, and violence.
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