Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, joined lawmakers and other leaders in a walk to mark the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women. The event was part of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence with the theme “No Excuse for Violence!”
The walk, which began at the National Assembly, included key figures like Deputy Speaker Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu, Majority Leader Hon. Julius Ihonvbere, and Ministers Imaan Suleiman-Ibrahim (Women Affairs) and Ayodele Olawande (Youth Development). It ended at the Nigeria Police Force Headquarters, where a petition was submitted to the Inspector-General of Police, Mr. Kayode Egbetokun, urging thorough investigation and prosecution of cases of violence against women and girls.
Speaking during the walk, Speaker Abbas called gender-based violence an unacceptable and urgent global issue. He assured the public that the National Assembly would actively work with law enforcement and other stakeholders to tackle the problem, emphasizing the need for stronger laws and policies.
“The 10th House is committed to reducing, if not completely eliminating, violence against women and girls,” he said. He also announced the Assembly’s involvement in the upcoming National Action Plan to address these issues.
The Chairman of the House Committee on Women Affairs, Hon. Kafilat Ogbara, led the team to deliver the petition at the Force Headquarters. The House will remain engaged in activities throughout the 16-day campaign, aiming to bring lasting change.
