By Oginni Joy Kehinde
Edo State Ministry of Social Development and Gender Issues has vowed to make perpetrators of gender-based violence face severe sanctions in accordance with the provisions of the VAPP (Violence Against Persons Prohibition) law.
Giving this assurance during an advocacy/sensitisation campaign on Gender-Based Violence in Orhionmwon Local Government Area of Edo State, the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry, Mrs. Barbara Osobajo, emphasised the implementation of the VAPP law and advised the public to adhere to it.
According to her, “As a Ministry with the responsibility of providing succor to the vulnerable, it is our responsibility to provide and empower everyone with this necessary law that will help in maintaining an orderly society free from Gender-Based Violence”.
She added that the Edo State First Lady, Mrs Betsy Obaseki, as a Chair Leader of the Advocacy movement is committed to the fight against Gender-Based Violence.
Barr. Ulo Uzamere, a resource person at the sensitisation programme educated the people on the crimes, laws, and sanctions of the VAPP. According to her, the sanction for rape is life imprisonment, and anyone caught in the act of gang rape or is an accomplice will not be spared.
Uzamere further enumerated some of the offences recognised by the VAPP law as female circumcision, forceful ejection from home, forceful isolation, economic dependence and many more.
Dr. Georgina Eromonsele, another resource person further educated the people on possible actions to take in the event of Gender-Based Violence.
On his part, the Head of Orhionmwon Local Government Area (HOLGA) who was represented by Mr. Joseph uhunmwangho, appreciated the Ministry and promised commitment in implementing the VAPP Law.
The high point of the occasion was the feedback session, and presentation of craft work made by Mrs. Tina John and Co. Blind Centre graduates who just returned from a training in Lagos, sponsored by the State Government.
