By Ada Nkong
The new FCT FIDA chairperson Barr Chioma Onyenucheya- Uko has called for collaboration with the media to protect the rights of women and children.
The chairperson made the call at a media parley Saturday in Abuja attended by some members of her executives and journalists drawn from different media houses.
She urged the journalists to feel free to provide direction to where the stories that need FIDA’s intervention and attention arise.
“So I’m hoping that as an outcome of this interaction today, that we’re able to form a formidable partnership that will throw focus on the issues that affect women and children and then help combat all discriminatory and abusive practices against women and children for the wholesome enjoyment of their rights and well-being”.
Lamenting the incessant cases of defilement of minors as well as other forms of violence against women and girls, she re-stated FIDA’s commitment to defending women and children against all forms of injustice at no cost.
“FIDA Nigeria Abuja Branch is one of those entities at the forefront of giving effect to the spirit and intentions of the VAPP Act using the practice direction. So some of the delays that used to happen in the courts in the adjudication of matters on SGBV have been drastically reduced. Now the timelines within which such matters can be brought to court, and then the dedication of certain courts towards expeditious adjudication of such matters, has improved the course of justice generally for survivors of SGBV”.
While stressing the pivotal role the media plays in creating awareness about societal ills that need to be addressed as well as acting as a bridge between FIDA and Survivors as well as victims, she appealed to the media for continued partnership and support in the fight to end violence against women and girls
NewsAnnexOnline 