Gombe State is strengthening its fight against Gender-Based Violence (GBV) with a renewed commitment to zero tolerance. The pledge was made during a town hall meeting organized by the office of First Lady Hajiya Asma’u Inuwa Yahaya.
The First Lady highlighted the strong political will of Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya and the state legislature, which has enabled collaboration with donor agencies to combat GBV effectively. She noted that Gombe’s proactive measures, including the 2022 Child Protection Law and the Violence Against Persons (VAPP) Law, have earned the state national and international recognition, making it one of six pilot states in Nigeria’s GBV programs.
Addressing traditional and religious leaders, Hajiya Asma’u urged them to expose GBV perpetrators and ensure they face the law, emphasizing that Gombe has no room for such acts. She called on parents and community leaders to protect women and children in schools, markets, parks, and homes, and encouraged victims to report incidents to the Social Welfare Department.
During the meeting, representatives from traditional institutions and religious bodies including Alhaji Sammani Bappah (Senior District Head), Alhaji Saleh Ɗanburam (JNI), and Mercy Francis (CAN) expressed full support for the GBV campaign, reminding parents to monitor their children’s wellbeing. They signed a binding document pledging their commitment to zero tolerance for GBV.
The Gombe State House of Assembly, represented by the majority leader and the chair of the Women Affairs Committee, also reaffirmed its support for stronger laws and policies protecting women and children. Wives of local government chairmen pledged to carry the campaign to local communities.
Experts at the meeting highlighted the socio-cultural roots of GBV, including denial of education, early marriage, and relegation of girls to domestic roles. They stressed that awareness, education, and economic empowerment are key to eradicating GBV.
The Speaker of the Gombe State Children Parliament, Hon Ramlat Kasim Ahmad, praised the state’s legal framework, noting that the VAPP and Child Protection laws guarantee children’s rights and welfare.
Gombe State is now leading the charge to ensure a safe, GBV-free environment for all women and children.
