By: Monday Danladi, Bauchi
A range of stakeholders – including UN agencies, governments, National Human Rights Institutions, NGOs and law enforcement agents have been described as key actors in addressing gender based violence (GBV) in the country.
The assertion was made during a One-day training organized by the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) in collaboration with the Bauchi State Ministry of Justice for Staff of the Ministry of Justice, Investigative Police Officers (IPOs) and Divisional Police Officers (DPOs) on the effective and efficient handling issues of Gender based violence in Bauchi State.
In a speech delivered by the UNFPA State Programme Officer, Deborah Tabara at the training held on Monday, She said that Tuesday marks the International Human Rights Day and the closing of the 2024 16 Days of Activism Against Gender- Based Violence (GBV) thereby making it strategic that the meeting was held.
She added that Gender-based violence is a human rights violation as Human rights provide a framework for understanding the intersecting factors and underlying causes that contribute to discrimination, including GBV.
She also said that GBV Is the result of structural, deep-rooted discrimination, and human rights-based approaches can help address these forces though multi-sectoral interventions, particularly uplifting the experiences of women with Intersectional identities
Deborah Tabara stated that, “Our laws and policies give us the impetus to provide intervention for GBV. The Ministry of Justice is key in the enactment and implementation of Laws
The Law enforcement agents are one of the first responders of GBV. Acess to jsutice is only possible when people know the content and applications of laws.”
The UNFPA Officer further stated that, “The Fifth Sustainable Development Goals l of Achieving Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment is both a stand-alone goal and also an intrinsic part of all the other sustainable development goals.”
She added that, “SDG 5 is recognized both as an enabler and an accelerator for the achievement of all the other SDGs. Providing Access to Gender Based Violence Services enables us to fulfill the SDG principle of leave no one behind which the UN is very committed to. Leave No One Behind is also one of the Overarching UNFPA Intervention.”
According to her,”Bauchi state is strengthening and building momentum for a unified, consistent response to cases of Domestic and Sexual Violence from survivor support service providers, law enforcement, prosecutors, and the courts. This, we believe will also foster and further strengthen synergy between and within Responder Agencies of GBV.”
Deborah Tabara stressed that engaging in strategic policy advocacy, and ensuring access to justice for survivors of Sexual and Gender-Based Violence will ensure access to Health Clinical Management of Rape (CMR); Social Service – Psychosocial Support (PSS); and Protection – Security and Access to justice.
“These services would be delivered at no cost to clients, whilst maintaining the principles of Survivor Centred Approach, Safety and Confidentiality,” She assured.
In her welcome address, the Solicitor General /Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Justice, Sha’awanatu Yusuf stated that,”It is a great honor to address such a distinguished gathering of Police Investigators and State Attorneys dedicated to enhancing access to justice for survivors of gender-based violence (GBV) in Bauchi State.”
‘Today marks a significant step in our collective effort to combat gender-based violence and ensure that survivors receive the justice and support they rightfully deserve. The prevalence of GBV in our society is a grave concern that demands our unwavering commitment and concerted action.
She added that, “This training aims to equip you with the knowledge, skills, and tools necessary to address GBV cases with the highest level of professionalism, sensitivity, and efficacy.”
According to her, “Our training today will focus on two critical topics: Enhancing Investigative Excellence: Key Elements for Law Enforcement in Gender-Based Violence Cases Critical Considerations for the Prosecution in Gender-Based Violence Cases.”
The Solicitor General and Permanent Secretary added that,”The first topic will delve into the essential elements required to elevate the standard of investigations in GBV cases. Effective investigation is the cornerstone of successful prosecution and justice delivery.”
She added that, “This session will cover the importance of specialized training, multidisciplinary collaboration, survivor-centered approaches, the use of forensic technology, and the application of a robust legal framework.”
She stressed that, “By enhancing our investigative excellence, we can ensure that evidence is meticulously gathered and preserved, leading to stronger cases and greater accountability for perpetrators.”
According to her, “The second topic will address the prosecution’s role in GBV cases, highlighting the critical considerations that must be taken into account. This includes understanding the complexities of GBV, ensuring a victim-centered approach, navigating legal challenges, and upholding the rights and dignity of survivors throughout the judicial process.”
“Prosecution is not merely about securing convictions; it is about delivering justice in a manner that respects and empowers survivors, while also deterring future acts of violence.
I am confident that this training will provide valuable insights and practical strategies that will enhance your capacity to investigate and prosecute GBV cases effectively,” She added.
The Solicitor General and Permanent Secretary further stated that,”The knowledge shared today will not only benefit you as professionals but will also contribute to the broader goal of creating a society where gender-based violence is not tolerated and where survivors are supported and empowered.”
She then expressed her heartfelt gratitude to the UNFPA for their partnership and unwavering support in organizing this training stating that, ‘Your expertise and dedication to advancing gender equality and human rights are invaluable.”
