The Kogi State Government has taken further steps to mitigate sexual exploitation, abuse, harassment, and all forms of gender-based violence across the state.
Speaking at a stakeholders engagement workshop on sexual exploitation and abuse/gender-based violence (GBV) organised by the Nigeria COVID-19 preparedness and response project (NCoPREP) for members of the Kogi State Technical Working Group on GBV, the Director, Planning Research and Statistics, Kogi State Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development, Mr. Inah Husseni Isaac, said sexual exploitation, abuse, and harassment are pervasive issues that affect individuals across all communities, including Kogi State.
Mr Isaac noted that, Sexual exploitation, abuse and harassment, (SEAH) in all of its forms has tremendous physical, emotional and social consequences for the person victimised by it, who is often referred to as a ‘survivor’.
“The Kogi State Government has put much effort into ending sexual exploitation, abuse, harassment, and all forms of gender-based violence. There is currently a law in the State whereby anyone caught in this wicked act will be meant to face the full weight of the law.
“The government has continued to engage religious leaders, traditional rulers, and key stakeholders to support the campaign of the government to put an end to sexual abuse and all forms of gender-based violence in Kogi State.
“It’s essential to understand these concepts comprehensively in order to address them effectively, which is essential for creating safe and respectful communities.
“During pandemic crises such as COVID-19, many factors can exacerbate the risk of experiencing SEAH. These include—but are not limited to—increased security presence, lack of community and state protections, displacement, scarcity of essential resources, disruption of community services, changes in cultural and gender norms, disrupted relationships, and weakened infrastructure.”.
He opined that survivors of gender-based violence have the right to receive quality, compassionate care and support that addresses the harmful consequences of violence in order to help them heal and recover.
Continuing, he said, “Recognising SEAH is essential for maintaining the integrity and effectiveness of the Kogi State Technical Working Group. By adhering to international standards, national legislation, and organisational policies, the Kogi State Technical Work Group can create a safe and respectful working environment for all team members.
“Through continuous training, awareness-raising, and proactive measures, the Kogi State Technical Work Group can mitigate risks associated with SEAH and uphold its commitment to ethical and professional standards.
“Together, we can foster a culture of respect, dignity, and equality within the Kogi State Technical Work Group and contribute to the broader goal of combating gender-based violence and discrimination in society, he stated.
Isaac outlined exploitation, workplace harassment, and street harassment as some of the forms of sexual exploitation, abuse, and harassment in the world.
In her presentation on “GBV Prevention and Response Strategies,” Kogi State Coordinator, Association for Orphan and Vulnerable Children NGO in Nigeria (AONN), Helen Henry, opined that gender-based violence encompasses a range of harmful behaviours, including physical, sexual, psychological, and economic abuse, that disproportionately affect individuals based on their gender identity or expression.
Her words: “The COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated existing vulnerabilities and inequalities, leading to a surge in GBV cases globally.
“Addressing Gender-Based Violence requires a multi-faceted and collaborative approach that addresses the root causes of violence, strengthens support systems for survivors, and promotes gender equality and social justice.
“By implementing the prevention and response strategies discussed, the State GBV technical working group can play a vital role in creating a safer and more equitable society for all residents of Kogi State. Together, we can build a future free from violence and discrimination.
It could be recalled that, in 2023, a 23-member Technical Working Group to tackle cases of gender-based violence (GBV) was inaugurated in Kogi State.
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