Emir of Gombe Calls for Action Against GBV
The Emir of Gombe, Alhaji Abubakar Shehu Abubakar, has called for urgent action to address the issue of Gender-Based Violence (GBV) in the state.
The royal father emphasised the need for collective efforts to prevent and respond to instances of GBV, which continue to have devastating effects on individuals and families in the state.
The emir made the call in a remark during a visit to his palace by the wife of the state governor, Hajiya Asma’u Inuwa Yahaya.
Abubakar was represented by ‘Dan Lawan Gombe.’ Dr. Sani Jauro issued a matching order to all district and village heads, as well as other ward heads within the Gombe Emirate Council, to actively support and promote the campaign against violence and abuse.
He equally called on all community leaders to take a stand against violence and to work together to raise awareness and protect the vulnerable members of the society.
“It is said that barbaric acts are on the increase in our society, and I think now is the time for us to stand and tackle this issue.
“I would like to commend the wife of the governor and her team for seeing the importance of the traditional institution in addressing this challenge in our communities.
I assure you that this collaboration will be a success with the support of our district heads, village heads, and other community leaders who have been directed to step up efforts at all levels and tackle issues of abuse and violence,” the emir said.
In her remarks, the first lady, who was represented by the commissioner of women affairs and social development, Asma’u Iganus, disclosed that cases of rape and other forms of GBV are on the increase in the state and that it is a widespread problem that affects people of all ages, genders, and socioeconomic backgrounds.
She added that the cases manifest in various forms, including physical, emotional, and sexual violence, as well as economic coercion, hence the need for community mobilisation and sensitisation.
She said, “The emir’s endorsement of the campaign against GBV marks a significant step forward in the fight against violent acts in Gombe. We appreciate our royal father for lending his voice to this fight and sending a powerful message to the offenders,” Yahaya stated.
Speaking further, she announced that Gombe has enacted the Child Protection and Violence Against Persons Prohibition (VAPP) laws, which will be used to punish offenders.
