By Emeka Uzoh, Owerri
A non-governmental organization, Alliances for Africa has partnered the Imo State Police Command to tackle gender based violence in the State.
Speaking during a one-day statewide training on Violence Against Persons Prohibition Law organized for the officers of Nigerian Police Force in Owerri on Friday, the Program Director, Alliances for Africa, Blessing Duru said the police and other security agencies reserve the right to arrest and prosecute violators of the law.
Duru said, “if the police are properly involved in the fight against violence of any sort, the vulnerable especially women and girl child will be protected from sexual harassments, domestic violence, traditional abuses and other forms of gender-based violence.”
Duru said “the essence of the training was to strengthen the capacity of the police officers by equipping them with the in-depth knowledge and understanding of Gender Based Violence, Gender Roles and Imo VAPP law of 2021 as legal framework to effectively address, investigate, and prosecute cases of gender based violence including sexual harassment”.
“The import of the training was to develop and implement strategies within the police force to improve the support and protection of victims with focus on enhancing reporting mechanism and creating a more survivor-center approach in handling GBV and sexual harassment cases in line with the VAPP law 2021”.
Imo Police Commissioner, Aboki Danjuma described the workshop as a testament to the police unwavering commitment to justice and the protection of the most vulnerable in the society, insisting that the best way to find oneself is to lose oneself in the service of others.
“The VAPP law represents a significant advancement in our legal framework, aimed at combating violence and safeguarding the rights of every individual in Imo State”.
“Your dedication and meticulous planning have been instrumental in making this initiative possible. Your efforts highlight the importance of professional development and demonstrate our shared resolve to address and prevent violence in our community”.
“This program, to me, is designed to deepen our understanding of the VAPP law and equip ourselves with the tools needed for its effective implementation. The knowledge and skills we gain will be crucial in enhancing our collective ability to combat violence and uphold justice”.
“let us, therefore , approach this opportunity with the seriousness it deserves, by applying what we have learned today to strengthen our capacity to serve and protect our community more effectively.”
