Emma Elekwa
Women in Anambra state have been urged to identify with victims of various forms of injustices rather than blaming them over their predicament.
The advice was given during town hall meeting and media engagement in Ufuma, Orumba North Local Government Area of the state as part of activities marking International Women’s Day.
The engagement organized by Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development was supported by the Rule of Law and Anti-corruption ( RoLAC).
It was funded by the European Union and implemented by the International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance (I-IDEA) in Nigeria.
The Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Women Affairs, Chinwe Achugbu described the year’s theme, “Rights, Justice, Action, For All Women and Girls,” as apt and timely.
She called on women to rally round victims of gender based violence and ensuring justices were served.
“The woman whose right was denied is going through lots of physiological and psychological trauma.
“Blaming her at that point will only be compounding her problem which can lead to depression or even death.
“It’s not a time to trade blame, but time to rescue such person. That’s one of the actions we’re talking about,” she added.
Achugbu appreciated the partners for their collaboration, just as she thanked leadership of the community for rallying the women.
She urged them to take advantage of the rare opportunity to better their lots.
Earlier, RoLAC Anambra Project Coordinator, Dr Josephine Onah said policies and commitments were insufficient in addressing the challenges facing women.
She maintained that tangible actions were needed to ensure their freedom and justice.
Onah, represented by State Associate Project Officer, James Osubor commended the women for turning out in their large numbers.
She urged them to be pay rapt attention to the messages in order to draw lessons for their future.
Community action
Coordinator, State Chapter of Child Protection Network (CPN), Mrs Eucharia Anekwe, called for community action to stop harmful traditional practices.
She said, “Community leaders should partner with relevant institutions to protect women’s rights. We must work together to create a safe environment for women and girls.”
Presenting a paper on “Women led Accountability Group”, a rights activist, Ugochi Freeman stressed the role of women in raising children with positive values.
“Raise children who are accountable and agents of change as well as holding government accountable.
“Women’s Day is a time to reflect on the progress made toward gender equality, recognize the challenges that still exist.
“It is also a time to take action to ensure that every woman and girl enjoys their rights and dignity.
“This year’s reminds us that protecting rights of women and girls requires collective effort from families, communities, and governments.”
Responding, local government chairman, Casmir Nwafor, appreciated the organizers for the choice of his Council Area for the outreach.
Represented by Chisom Sandra, the Chairman assured maximum utilization of the opportunity.
President General of Ufuma, Rtd Commodore Amaobi Offor represented by Nwankwo Obiora assured that the knowledge would be deployed for better outcomes.
Ifiora Chukwudozie, Rachael Yohanna, and Loveth Onyendilefu, Coordinator of the VAPP law Committee also made presentations on the occasion.
