Stand against rising tide of GBV – TACA, CSO’s urge women in Taraba

Women and girls in Taraba State and beyond have been called upon to stand against the rising tide of gender-based violence, including rape, by embracing education, self-defence and community support.

The call was made on Thursday at a sensitization campaign held in Kpantinapu village, in Yorro local government council of the state by the Taraba AIDS Control Agency, TACA.

The agency, through one of its directors, Mrs.Shepuya Atiku, emphasized the critical need for awareness and empowerment to combat the menace across the state.

She stressed the importance of equipping women and girls with the tools and knowledge to protect themselves and seek justice.

She noted that “Education and empowerment are key to preventing these acts of violence and ensuring survivors receive the support they need.”

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The event was part of the 16 Days of Activism to End Violence Against Women and Girls 2024, themed “Speak Up, organized by TACA in collaboration with the Network of People With AIDS in Nigeria, NEPWAN, Achieving Health Nigeria Initiative, AHNI-USAID, Key Population Secretariat, and the National Human Rights Commission, NHRC.

Amid growing concerns about the impact of gender-based violence on local communities, various speakers urged collective action to create safer environments for women and girls.

Supporting the position of Shepuya, the representative of AHNI-USAID, Mrs Rashidat Mahmoud, called on all Non-Governmental Organizations, NGOs, and Civil Society Organizations, CSOs operating in the state, to intensify efforts to combat gender-based violence.

She encouraged victims of rape to seek immediate medical attention for documentation before reporting incidents to the authorities.

Highlighting the challenge of stigma, which they said, often silences victims, they reassured that governments, NGOs, and civil organizations are prepared to take up such cases and ensure perpetrators face justice.

Echoing these sentiments, the state coordinator of the NHRC, Mr Yakubu Garpha, assured victims of the commission’s support, urging them to report any violations of their rights.

“Our office is always open to help victims of victimization. Do not hesitate to report these crimes,” he said.