FIDA Nigeria is deeply alarmed and saddened by the harrowing surge in violence against women in recent times, as illustrated by the series of tragic and inhumane incidents that have sent shockwaves across the nation.
These vile acts are not only a stain on our collective conscience but also a brutal violation of the fundamental rights and dignity of women.
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In Anambra State, we were confronted with the heart-wrenching story of a man pouring fuel on his wife and setting her ablaze, leading to her agonizing and untimely death. In Edo State, a 12-year-old girl was subjected to a heinous gang rape by five men, who had the audacity to film and circulate the despicable act, compounding her trauma.
Most recently, in Nasarawa State, the tragic and unjust murder of Salome Adaidu has further highlighted the growing list of women whose lives have been violently and prematurely taken.
These barbaric acts are unthinkable and represent the height of cruelty, savagery, and disregard for human life. The family unit, which should be a haven of love and security, is becoming a battlefield for unimaginable atrocities. FIDA Nigeria vehemently condemns these heinous crimes and the growing culture of impunity surrounding them.
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We cannot, as a society, remain silent while women are brutalized, violated, and murdered with seeming regularity. Silence only emboldens perpetrators, while justice delayed or denied continues to send the wrong message to society. This must stop.
FIDA Nigeria calls on the relevant authorities, particularly law enforcement agencies, to investigate these cases thoroughly, ensure the perpetrators are arrested, and prosecute them to the full extent of the law.
Justice must not only be done but must be seen to be done to restore faith in our justice system and send a clear message that violence against women will not be tolerated.
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We also call on the government at all levels, civil society organizations, traditional institutions, and religious leaders to strengthen their efforts in combating violence against women.
Community-based systems for early intervention must be reinforced, and public awareness campaigns should be intensified to educate society on the dangers, illegality, and consequences of violence.
Women and girls must be encouraged and supported to speak out against abuse without fear of stigma, shame, or retaliation. At the same time, survivors of violence must receive the medical, psychological, and legal assistance they need to rebuild their lives.
FIDA Nigeria remains steadfast in its commitment to protecting the rights of women and children. We pledge our unwavering support to the families of the victims as they seek justice and healing in the wake of these tragedies.
Mrs. Ednah D. Azura, Elected as NCWS President
As a nation, we must come together to end the scourge of gender-based violence. It is only through collective effort, compassion, and the enforcement of justice that we can hope to build a society where every woman and girl can live free from fear, harm, and violence.
Let us not forget these women whose lives have been taken from them in the most horrific ways. Let their stories ignite a sense of urgency in our hearts and a commitment to act. Together, we can and must put an end to this reign of terror against women.
Read the full Press Release here:
https://rb.gy/0a0xih
FIDANigeria
Signed
FIDA Nigeria
Eliana Martins
Country Vice President
FIDA Nigeria
Chineze Obianyo
National Publicity Secretary
FIDA Nigeria FIDA Nigeria
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