Ekiti State Vows to Crack Down on Gender-Based Violence

The Ekiti State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to imposing stringent penalties on perpetrators of gender-based violence (GBV). Recently, the state’s First Lady, Dr. Olayemi Oyebanji, organized a two-day workshop on GBV in collaboration with the Ministry of Local Government Affairs. The workshop aimed to raise awareness, educate, and develop strategies to combat GBV.

Dr. Oyebanji emphasized the state government’s resolve to tackle GBV, stating, “Perpetrators of GBV in Ekiti State will always face the consequences of their actions to serve as deterrents to others.” She further noted that GBV is a human rights violation that threatens well-being and development. The First Lady urged participants to create actionable plans to tackle GBV in their communities.

The Commissioner for Local Government Affairs, Folorunso Olabode, praised Dr. Oyebanji’s initiative, advising participants to implement the knowledge gained. The workshop brought together stakeholders, including top officials, gender desk officers, and local government chairmen.

Key resolutions emerged from the workshop, including the establishment of comprehensive and standardized procedures for reporting and documenting GBV cases. Participants also advocated for a dedicated task force/response unit for victim safety, continuous training on GBV, and disciplinary actions against officials failing to respond to GBV cases.

Additionally, the stakeholders recommended adequate compensation for survivors, empowering law enforcement agencies and the judiciary to promptly attend to GBV cases, and the establishment of gender courts. Dr. Oyebanji’s efforts align with her previous initiatives, such as promoting women’s empowerment.

The Ekiti State Government’s resolve to tackle GBV sends a strong message to perpetrators and survivors alike.