Lagos – An NGO, the Strategies to Achieve Gender Equality for Women Coalition (The STAGE for Women), has called for enforcement of the law against those that commit rape.
The group said this at a news conference to mark 16 days activism on violence against women and girls on Tuesday in Lagos.
Angela Daniels, a co-chair of STAGE for Women Coalition, said that reported cases of rape were often described as family matter, but enforcing the law would make abusers to have rethink.
“Awareness and synergy are indeed important in rape issues, but the issue that can put a stop to it is majorly in terms of enforcement; the laws are there.
“All reported cases should not be pushed under the carpet. Government must also be resolute and totally committed to the implementation of the law enacted,” she said.
Daniel, also President, Women Entrepreneurs Association of Nigeria (WEAN), implored rape victims to speak out when such evil act was perpetrated.
Phil Nneji, one of the spokespersons, urged the members of the society to have zero-tolerance for rape and abuse of women and girls.
“Violence is dehumanising; 98 per cent of those affected are women and girls. Members of the society need to stand up for victims. There should be zero-tolerance.
“This is a clarion call for government and non-governmental agencies. Community should also render support to victims,” she said.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that activities marking the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women started on Nov.25 and will run till Dec.10.
The 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence Campaign is a time to galvanise action to end violence against women and girls around the world.
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The international campaign originated from the first Women’s Global Leadership Institute coordinated by the Center for Women’s Global Leadership in 1991.
NGOs that participated at the event include WEAN, International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA) and Gender and Child Care Advancement Initiatives (G-CCAI).
Others are Centre for Correction and Human Development (CCHD), Forum for African Women Educationalists (FAWE), Initiatives for Sustaining Gender Empowerment (ISGEM). (NAN)