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The Nigeria Association of Women Journalists,NAWOJ, FCT Chapter, has raised concerns over the ongoing review of the Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Act (VAPP Act). During its September Congress, held on Saturday, September 22, 2024, the association warned against any attempts to drastically amend the Act, which has been a critical piece of legislation in protecting vulnerable individuals from various forms of violence.
The Congress, chaired by NAWOJ FCT Chairperson Bassey Ita Ikpang, noted that the VAPP Act took 16 years to be implemented after its initial proposal. The association stressed that while a review to strengthen the law is important, it must not lead to the removal of key provisions that protect women, children, and other vulnerable groups. The members urged stakeholders to focus on making necessary improvements without undermining the Act's core objectives.
The VAPP Act, passed in 2015, is widely recognized as a landmark law in Nigeria, addressing gender-based violence, domestic abuse, and other harmful practices such as female genital mutilation. It provides comprehensive measures to safeguard victims and penalize offenders.
NAWOJ FCT expressed concerns that certain sections of the Act could be watered down during the review, potentially erasing years of progress made in the fight against violence. The Congress urged lawmakers and civil society organizations to remain vigilant in preserving the most crucial parts of the legislation that directly impact vulnerable groups.
In addition to discussions on the VAPP Act, the Congress addressed several pressing issues affecting the nation and the association. Members called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to appoint a minister for the Federal Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, which has been without leadership for over six months.
The Congress also highlighted the alarming increase in crime rates in the FCT, urging security agencies to take proactive measures to combat rising violence. Furthermore, the assembly advised parents to instill moral values in their children to prevent involvement in online fraud and other criminal activities.
Members expressed solidarity with victims of the recent floods in Borno State, encouraging voluntary donations to assist those affected. They also discussed the need for increased awareness about ongoing fraud schemes, particularly those targeting women.
NAWOJ FCT’s call to action serves as a reminder of the importance of legal protections for victims of violence, especially in a country where cases of abuse continue to rise. The Congress stressed that the VAPP Act is a vital tool in the fight for gender justice and urged authorities to safeguard its provisions for future generations.