The First Lady of Gombe State, Asma’u Yahaya, has called for greater collaboration among stakeholders in the fight against Gender-Based Violence (GBV) and the activation of the Child Protection Law and Violence Against Prohibition Act. Speaking during her grassroots campaign, Yahaya emphasized the importance of community involvement in curbing GBV, which she described as a pressing issue in the state.
Represented by the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Asma’u Iganus, Yahaya urged traditional leaders, local government officials, and community members to sensitize residents about reporting and addressing GBV cases. “In Nigeria, Gombe ranks highest in gender-based violence. We are going from one local government to the other to sensitize people, help them know what to report, and ensure access to free hospital care and legal support,” she said.
Yahaya decried the alarming statistics of GBV in Gombe, noting that a collective effort is needed to tackle the scourge. She urged stakeholders to deploy their networks and influence to create awareness and provide support for victims.
In Kwami Local Government Area, the LGA Chairman, Dr. Ahmed Wali, described the statistics as unfortunate but commended the efforts of women in the community who are working tirelessly to combat violence. The Senior District Head of Kwami, Alhaji Aminu Abdullahi, echoed Wali’s sentiments, pledging the support of traditional leaders in sensitizing and protecting residents.
In Akko LGA, the wife of the LGA Chairman, Aishatu Muhammad, praised the First Lady’s commitment to women’s welfare and pledged to support the fight against GBV. Similarly, the Emir of Nafada, Alhaji Hamza Dadum, directed community leaders to take immediate action against perpetrators and establish committees to monitor and report cases.
During her visit to Yalmatu-Deba, Hadisa Usman, the PHC Coordinator, highlighted the issue of victims’ silence due to stigma and fear. Usman urged survivors to speak out, noting that stigma often prevents parents from reporting abuse.
To address these challenges, desk officers with anonymous reporting channels will be introduced to ensure survivors feel safe and supported. Aisha Kwairanga, the wife of the Emir of Funakaye, underscored the devastating consequences of GBV on victims and pledged the traditional institution’s support in eliminating violence.
As the global community wraps up the 16 Days of Activism against GBV, Gombe’s renewed efforts signal a commitment to ensuring that the fight does not lose momentum. Stakeholders, from traditional rulers to local government officials, have vowed to work collectively to create a safer and more equitable environment for women and girls.