We’re combating GBV through policy enforcement, community-driven initiatives – Kwara Governor
Kwara State Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq has stated the state government is combating Gender-Based Violence (GBV) through policy enforcement and community-driven initiatives.
Governor Abdulrazaq disclosed this while speaking during a stakeholders’ meeting organised by the Brain Builders Youth Development Initiative (BBYDI) at Banquet Hall, Ilorin on Wednesday.
The Governor represented by his Senior Special Assistant on Community Development, Dr. Lawal Olohungbebe reaffirmed his administration commitment to combating GBV through policy enforcement, legal action, and community-driven initiatives.
He commended BBYDI for its advocacy efforts and stressed the need for a multi-sectoral approach to tackling the issue.
In his remarks, Emir of Ilorin, Dr. Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari called on traditional rulers to play the lead role in the fight against Gender-Based Violence (GBV) within their domain.
The Emir who was represented by the Daudu Jeje of Ilorin, Alh. Al-Haeri Abdulwahab, condemned the rising cases of GBV, noting that such acts undermine the dignity, security, and well-being of the entire communities.
The Monarch therefore implored traditional rulers to use their influence to challenge harmful norms, prevent violence, and support survivors.
His words: “As leaders and custodians of tradition, we have a profound responsibility to ensure that our communities become havens of peace, respect, and equality. Ending GBV requires a collaborative effort between traditional rulers, government agencies, and civil society organizations to empower both women and men to be part of the solution.”
The event, themed ‘Mobilising Stakeholders for Action Against GBV in Kwara’ convened BBYDI had in attendance key stakeholders, including government officials, religious and community leaders, security agencies, and media representatives.
A key highlight of the meeting was the launch of the GBV Prevention and Advocacy Toolkit which Emir of Ilorin described as a call to action.
“This toolkit is a call to action. I urge every traditional ruler to embrace its guidance, adapt it to their unique contexts, and commit to a future where violence has no place in our homes, our streets, or our hearts. Let us honor the sacred trust placed in us as leaders and create a legacy of peace, dignity, and progress,” he added.
Similarly, the First Lady of Kwara State, Ambassador Olufolake Abdulrazaq, described GBV as a pressing issue that demands collective action from all sectors of society. She expressed her support for all initiatives aimed at protecting the rights and dignity of women and girls.
Earlier in her welcome address, BBYDI’s Executive Director, Nura Jimoh, highlighted the organisation’s ongoing efforts to combat GBV, including engagements with first-class traditional rulers, GBV prevention workshops for high chiefs, and radio advocacy programs.
She described the recent tragic murder of Hafsoh Lawal in Ilorin by an Islamic cleric l, Abdulrahman Ballo, as a stark reminder of the urgent need for action. “This is not just a personal or family issue; it is a societal crisis that demands collective intervention. We must all do more to protect women and girls from all forms of violence,” she stated.