In a decisive move towards addressing gender-based violence, the Katsina State Governor, Malam Dikko Umaru Radda inaugurated the State Steering Committee at the Presidential Banquet Hall in the Government House, Katsina early this morning.
The ceremony marked the official assent to the Violence Against Persons Prohibition Law, No. 16 of 2023, by Governor Dikko Umaru Radda, underlining the state’s commitment to combating gender-based violence.
In his address, Governor Radda emphasized the committee’s establishment as a testament to the administration’s dedication to eradicating gender violence within the state.
Governor Radda urged committee members to be champions of change in this fight, emphasizing the importance of drawing guidance from both the principles of Islam and the rich cultural heritage of the Hausa/Fulani community in the pursuit of justice.
He called for collaboration with religious and traditional leaders, media, and civil society organizations to amplify the message to the public.
Expressing gratitude to the State House of Assembly for the swift passage of the Violence Against Persons Prohibition Act, Governor Radda warned of a zero-tolerance policy against any form of gender violence.
State Chief Judge Justice Musa Danladi Abubakar pledged to establish a special court to expedite cases related to gender-based violence and child abuse. He urged committee members to work diligently and called on citizens to report cases promptly.
State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice Barrister Fadila Muhammad Dikko clarified that the law aimed to address and curb violence against citizens, with a particular focus on protecting women and children.
Commissioner of Women Affairs Hajiya Zainab Musa Musawa expressed appreciation for the governor’s commitment to protecting women and children. She also thanked the governor for constituting the steering committee, symbolizing his dedication to addressing gender-related issues in the state.
The ceremony included the official unveiling of the Violence Against Persons Prohibition Law and the Child Protection Law. Governor Radda announced that the steering committee would be coordinated by the Ministry of Women Affairs, with the Permanent Secretary of the ministry serving as the secretary.
Ibrahim Kaula Mohammed,
Chief Press Secretary to the Katsina State Governor.
December 22nd 2023
