By Peace Temisan Osemwegie
The Edo State Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Barr. Marie Bisi Idaomi, has recommended improved facilities and specialized personnel for seamless service delivery at the Sexual Assault Referral Centre (SARC) in Benin City.
Barr. Idaomi made the recommendation during a tour of the facility to ascertain its capacity and potentials in responding to cases which are referred to it at all times. Her recommendations include the establishment of a data center which will be domiciled in the Ministry; counseling units for survivors; children’s play areas; functional kitchen; pharmacy amongst others. She stressed the importance of a specialized mental health counseling unit with professional counselors.
Hon. Idaomi also recommended the establishment of a SARC center in Edo North Senatorial Distric (Etsako); the provision of logistics and armed police officers for swift responses and possible arrest; and regular engagements to define roles and responsibilities among stakeholders.
The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mrs. Joy Irenosen Ihensikien, assured that measures are in place to improve accessibility to medical supplies at the SARC Centre, with provisions made in the Ministry’s 2025 budget.
The Manager of the Centre, Dr. Faith Edebor, appreciated the visit of the Commissioner and expressed optimism that it would yield positive outcomes. She hoped that the Centre’s needs would be addressed, saying the Commissioner’s commitment would bring about the realization of the SARC Centre’s mission.
During the inspection, an illegal occupant was discovered in the shelter, and a 3-day ultimatum was issued for evacuation.
