The Centre for Social Awareness, Advocacy, and Ethics (CSAAE) has strongly advocated for the amendment of Nigeria’s Violence Against Persons Prohibition Act (VAPP) and not its total repeal.
The call came following the recent second reading of the bill to repeal the VAPP Act sponsored by Senator Jibrin Isah of Kogi East.
In a statement issued on Friday in Owerri, the Executive Director, CSAAE, Rev Fr. Dr. Godswill Agbagwa, said that the VAPP Act, enacted in 2015, has been adopted as state law in 34 states across Nigeria, marking a significant achievement in the protection of human rights, particularly for women and vulnerable populations.
CSAAE argues that repealing this landmark legislation would not only dismantle years of advocacy and progress but also expose countless individuals to increased risks of violence and discrimination.
According to him, the repeal of the VAPP Act would be a grave setback in our collective fight against gender-based violence and abuse in Nigeria.
He said, “Instead of moving backwards, we should focus on strengthening this legislation through effective amendments that clarify its provisions and expand its reach, ensuring that it serves every Nigerian effectively.”.
CSAAE emphasises that the beauty of law lies in its ability to evolve through amendments over time.
He said that total repeal would disregard the hard work invested in establishing the VAPP Act and render all efforts and funds expended in its implementation futile, adding that such an action would undermine Nigeria’s commitment to international legal standards, which favour the review and amendment of existing laws over their outright repeal.
The organisation also calls for a shift in focus from repeal to amendment, believing that this approach will build confidence in Nigeria’s constitutional framework and set a healthy precedent for respect and regard for existing laws.
He insisted that by enhancing the VAPP Act, Nigeria can reaffirm its commitment to the protection of its citizens and strengthen its standing in the international community.
CSAAE urges the Nigerian Senate to reconsider its stance on the VAPP Act and collaborate with stakeholders, including civil society organisations, community leaders, and the public, to advocate for amendments that will enhance this vital legislation.
He said, “The fight against violence and abuse must remain a priority for all levels of government and society.”
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