In a significant move to combat gender-based violence (GBV), Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has inaugurated a Steering Committee and Technical Working Committee on GBV.
The inauguration ceremony took place at the Local Government Service Commission Staff Training Centre in Ibadan, coinciding with the International Day of Zero Tolerance to Female Genital Mutilation.
Represented by the Head of Service, Olubunmi Oni, Governor Makinde emphasized the committees’ crucial role in developing and implementing programs and policies to prevent GBV in the state.
Oni stressed the importance of rehabilitation for victims of GBV, despite preventive measures in place.
GBV is a pervasive issue affecting individuals and communities worldwide, transcending borders, cultures, and socioeconomic status.
Oni called for a collective and sustained effort to combat domestic violence, sexual abuse, female genital mutilation, and public harassment, among other forms of violence against women.
The Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Inclusion, Toyin Balogun, highlighted the imperative of collaboration between the State Steering and Technical Working committees and the Ministry of Women Affairs to eradicate GBV and Female Genital Mutilation (FGM).
The committees’ terms of reference include conducting public awareness campaigns, providing rehabilitation and support for victims, and developing a sustainable plan to prevent GBV in the state.
The 20-man Steering Committee comprises key stakeholders, including the Commissioner of Health, Commissioner for Agriculture, Commissioner of Police, and representatives from media organizations and other relevant bodies
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