Gombe Governor’s Wife Tasks Wives of Local Government Chairmen to Fight GBV
The wife of Gombe state governor, Hajiya Asma’u Inuwa Yahaya, has called on the wives of Local Government Area (LGA) chairmen in the state to set up special committees dedicated to combating Gender-Based Violence (GBV) and child molestation.
According to the first lady, the initiative is aimed at empowering and mobilising women at the grassroots level to take a stand against GBV and protect children from harm. The wife of the governor stated this while speaking at a sensitisation and stakeholders engagement in Balanga LGA of the state.
Asma’u, who was represented by the state commissioner of Women Affairs and Social Development, Asma’u Iganus, explained that GBV is a pressing issue that requires all hands to be on deck.
She added that by involving the wives of local government officials, the campaign is expected to gain traction and foster community-wide support in eradicating the harmful practices. She added that the engagement is in commemoration of the 2024 16 Days of Activism in the state.
“GBV is a crucial issue that needs concrete steps from all stakeholders to be addressed; we have to work towards a safer and more inclusive society for all,” the first lady said.
Speaking further, Asma’u explained that the committee is expected to take charge of community engagement, dialogues, and awareness campaigns on GBV. They are also to collaborate with community-based organisations to amplify efforts in combating issues around GBV.
“We want the team to lead and advocate support for the enforcement of laws against GBV and facilitate access to legal aid and support services for survivors of abuse to seek justice and protection,” the Governor’s wife stated.
In her remarks, the wife of the chairman of Balanga LGA, Hajiya Balkisu Musa, commended the first lady for standing against GBV as well as supporting women and children.
She said, “As we gathered here today, we want to ensure and emphasise our efforts and commitments, thereby bringing an end to violence against women and our young girls, embracing a sense of dignity, justice, equity, and respect for all”.
This campaign marks the continuity of our efforts and struggles to bring to an end gender-based violence in line with the international day for the elimination of violence against women and young girls globally.
“In remembrance of the countless women and girls that had undergone different forms of violence, discrimination, and traumatic abuse, therefore we must stand together in support and solidarity to those who were already victimised and also to prevent the reoccurrence on others,” she added.
