[ad_1]
Chigozie Uzosike
A non-governmental organisation, Alliances for Africa, has urged the Imo State Police Command to support the move to tackle sexual harassment, exploitation and gender-based violence in the state.
This was made known at a one-day training on the Violence Against Persons Prohibition Law, organised for the officers of the Nigerian Police Force in Owerri over the weekend.
The Program Director of Alliances for Africa, Blessing Duru, said the police and other security agencies reserve the right to arrest and prosecute violators of the law.
Duru said, “If the police are properly involved in the fight against violence of any sort, the vulnerable, especially women and girl child would be protected from sexual harassment, domestic violence, traditional abuses and other forms of gender-based violence.
“The essence of the training was to strengthen the capacity of the police officers by equipping them with the in-depth knowledge and understanding of Gender-Based Violence, Gender Roles and Imo VAPP Law of 2021 as a legal framework to effectively address, investigate, and prosecute cases of gender-based violence, including sexual harassment.
“The import of the training was to develop and implement strategies within the police force to improve the support and protection of victims with a focus on enhancing reporting mechanism and creating a more survivor-centre approach in handling GBV and sexual harassment cases in line with the VAPP Law 2021.”
Imo State Police Commissioner, Aboki Danjuma, described the workshop as a testament to the unwavering commitment to justice and the protection of the most vulnerable in society by the police, insisting that the best way to find oneself is to lose oneself in the service of others.
Danjuma enthused, “The VAPP Law represents a significant advancement in our legal framework, aimed at combating violence and safeguarding the rights of every individual in Imo State.
“Your dedication and meticulous planning have been instrumental in making this initiative possible. Your efforts highlight the importance of professional development and demonstrate our shared resolve to address and prevent violence in our community.
“This program, to me, is designed to deepen our understanding of the VAPP Law and equip ourselves with the tools needed for its effective implementation. The knowledge and skills we gain would be crucial in enhancing our collective ability to combat violence and uphold justice.
“Let us, therefore, approach this opportunity with the seriousness it deserves, by applying what we have learned today to strengthen our capacity to serve and protect our community more effectively.”
Copyright PUNCH
All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express written permission from PUNCH.
Contact: [email protected]
[ad_2]
