By Richard Benjamin
The Sokoto State Government has disclosed that it recorded 883 cases of Gender-Based Violence (GBV), with 22 convictions secured as part of efforts to tackle violence against women and other vulnerable persons in the state.
The disclosure was made by the Commissioner for Women and Children Affairs, Hajiya Hadiza Ahmed Shagari, during a stakeholders’ meeting on efforts to combat gender-based violence.
Shagari said the convictions reflected the government’s commitment to ensuring that perpetrators of gender based violence are brought to justice while victims receive the necessary support.
She noted that the state government has continued to strengthen collaboration with security agencies, the judiciary, traditional institutions and development partners to improve the prevention, reporting and prosecution of GBV cases.
According to her, awareness campaigns, community engagement and support services for survivors remain key components of the state’s strategy to reduce incidents of gender-based violence.
The commissioner urged residents to report cases promptly, stressing that silence often prevents victims from obtaining justice and protection.
She reaffirmed the government’s commitment to protecting women, children and other vulnerable groups, adding that efforts would continue to strengthen the response to gender-based violence across the state.
Gender based violence remains a major concern in Nigeria, with governments and development partners advocating stronger enforcement of existing laws, improved support for survivors and greater public awareness to curb the menace.
