By Ado Hassan, Sokoto
Governor Aminu Waziri Tambuwal of Sokoto state has said that rapists and other Gender Based Violence(GBV) perpetrators don’t deserve mercy of any kind.
Similarly, the governor warned traditional leaders not to involve themselves in cases of GBV but report to appropriate law enforcement for proper process.
” Traditional leaders involved in dealing with such matters should desist henceforth.”
Tambuwal stated in Sokoto Thursday when he received the state Forum Against GBV on a visit to him.
He said it is disheartening and disturbing to see an elderly man defiling a minor.
” Such scenario cannot be justified “, he stated.
The governor stressed that violence in whatever form must be condemned and rejected by individuals, groups and government at all levels.
He noted that most incidences were against the vulnerable class (women , children).
Accordingly, Tambuwal pointed out that the position of rape from the religious and conventional laws has made is clear , adding that the state Penal Code has a penalty of 21 years minimum or life imprisonment without option of fine.
” We passed that into law in 2019″, he stated.
While assuring the Forum of his administration support to the course against GBV, Tambuwal said he would ensure efforts were made to strengthen the law especially on the child rights Act , explaining that a machinery had been put in place to interface and do the needful.
“Already , the state Ulamas have concluded work on that for further recommendations and action.”
He commended the Forum’s commitment to the laudable course against evil acts as well their support to victims of the social vices.
Earlier, the state Coordinate and District Head of Gagi, Alhaji Sank Umar Jabbi said they were attracted to the course to ensure justice and penalties for both victims and perpetrators accordingly.
” We are actively involved in the process of prosecution to ensure justice in a domestic violence incidence that happened in Bodinga “, he cited an example for the gover
He explained that the Forum which composed of representatives of NGOs, CSOs, Development partners, Lawyers, among other patriotic individuals , had been on advocacy activities to sensitize the public on the ills and dangers associated with GBV.
According to the traditional leader, ” we are mobilizing the public to support the course of tackling the social menace .”
However, Jabbi appealed to the governor for the review and domestication of certain laws especially those bordering on child right Act.
He also outlined some of the challenges of the Forum with an appeal to the governor to urgently address. They include the provision enabling environment and shelter for victims against stigmatisation, logistics (vehicles for advocacy campaigns and sensitization activities as well empowerment ).
He said ” there is no negotiation on issues of GBV. The Forum will appreciate a more responsive synergy related ministries and agencies in the state service to further fast track GBV matters”, he sought .
Jabbi further acknowledged governor Tambuwal and commended his sense of hope and resilience for the people of the state by giving a purposeful leadership towards not only GBV issues but all other han related issues aimed at advancing the state.
