The Minister of Women Affairs, Hajiya Imaan Suleiman, has called for capital punishment for rapists as a decisive step toward ending violence against women and girls in Nigeria.
Speaking at a rally in Lafia, the Nasarawa State capital, to mark the 2024 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, the minister emphasized that tougher penalties are essential to deter such heinous crimes.
“This administration, under President Bola Tinubu, is committed to ensuring a safe society where women and girls can thrive and achieve their full potential,” Hajiya Suleiman said.
The rally, which featured women from various groups, including those living with HIV and AIDS, took the form of a road walk through major areas of Lafia. Participants carried placards with messages such as “Let the Girl Child Breathe,” “Violence Against Women Is a Crime Against Humanity,” and “Stop Abusing the Girl Child.”
Nasarawa State Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Hajiya Aishatu Rufa’i, also addressed the gathering, urging for more punitive measures against perpetrators of gender-based violence. “Parents and guardians must remain vigilant to protect the rights of the girl child,” she stated, highlighting a disturbing rise in defilement cases across communities in the state.
Hajiya Suleiman further underscored the importance of unity among community leaders, civil society organizations, and other stakeholders in the fight against gender-based violence. “Collaboration is key to ending violence and fostering equality,” she added.
Governor Abdullahi Sule, who also attended the event, reiterated the state government’s commitment to strengthening agencies tasked with enforcing laws protecting women and girls. “We will ensure these laws are not just on paper but fully implemented to protect our women and children,” the governor said.
The governor also commended the women’s groups for their relentless advocacy, saying, “Your resilience and determination are a testament to the power of collective action.”
The event included the distribution of empowerment items, toiletries, and cash to support women’s groups.
This year’s theme for the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence is “Towards Beijing +30: UNiTE to End Violence Against Women and Girls.”
