Fight against GBV needs collective efforts – Zamfara first lady to stakeholders

From Babangida Abdullahi, Gusau

To Our Stakeholders

Zamfara’s first lady, Hajiya Hurriya Dauda Lawal said fighting against Gender Based Violence (GBV) needs collective efforts and commitment of the stakeholders and she called on government, traditional rulers, religious leaders, law enforcement, educators, NGOs, journalists, market women, youth groups, and our media stand firm against GBV.

Hurriya made the call at State House, Gusau during the launching of the global campaign of 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence.

Hurriya said, Gender-based violence remains a profound threat to social wellbeing and development.

“This year’s theme is a powerful reminder that “Digital violence is real violence. The first lady said.

“In this fast-growing digital world, our phones, our devices and our social media platforms have become extensions of our lives. Sadly, they have also become tools for harassment, bullying, blackmail, exploitation, cyberstalking and emotional violence. Online abuse is not virtual. It causes real pain, real trauma and real harm. We must protect our people in both physical and digital spaces. Hurriya rised alarm.

The first lady said, the leadership of Governor Dauda Lawal’s administration will continues to strengthen social welfare, access to justice, community safety, and health systems.

The first lady slated priorities areas of this year’s campaign among which are strengthening the enforcement of laws that protect survivors, supporting access to justice for victims of online and offline abuse, working hand-in-hand with security agencies to protect communities, expanding safe spaces, psychosocial support, and counselling, Promoting digital safety, responsible online behavior, and cybercrime reporting and ending stigma, silence, and harmful cultural practices

“Let it be clear:
Silence is no longer an option. Fear is no longer a barrier. Violence whether physical or digital will no longer be tolerated.

“Let us not cover cases.
Let us not blame survivors.
Let us not allow the internet to become a weapon. Hurriya energized.

She also called on the generation of the digital age to utilize their voice to uplift not to tear down while technology shall be used for innovation, not intimidation.

“As we officially flag off this year’s 16 Days of Activism, let us remember: A peaceful and progressive Zamfara depends on the safety of our women, our children and our digital spaces. Hurriya said.