Following Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo’s vision for a violent-free society, the Kogi State Public Defender and Citizens’ Rights Commission (PDCRC) over the weekend paid an advocacy visit to Army Day Secondary School, Lokoja, to enlighten students and staff about the commission’s role and the Violence Against Persons Prohibition (VAPP) Law, as the visit aimed to raise awareness about the protection of human rights and the legal consequences of violence against individuals.
Idris, director general, PDCRC, explained that the commission’s role in providing legal aid to vulnerable and indigent residents, stating that twelve lawyers from the Ministry of Justice have been assigned to handle such cases, as he pointed out that the commission manages Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR), the Child’s Right Law, and the VAPP Law, emphasizing the commission’s commitment to justice and human rights protection.
Hibat Umar, head, ADR Unit, who introduced the VAPP Law, disclosed its key provisions, including the prohibition of rape, coercion, inflicting injuries, forceful ejection from homes, isolation from family and friends, and harmful traditional practices such as female genital mutilation.
She explained the penalties associated with the offences, noting that female genital mutilation attracts a ₦500,000 fine or 7 years imprisonment.
The deputy director in charge of Criminal Litigation, Emmanuel Ibenu, emphasised that the VAPP Law aims to prohibit violence against individuals, whether in private or public settings, adding that the provision of protection orders under the law and noted that the Commission has two protection officers who handle such cases.
He encouraged students to report incidents of violence, including spousal battery, regardless of the victim’s gender.
Ameh Friday, a senior legal officer and legal assistant to the director general, reiterated the importance of information as a tool for empowerment, adding that the commission’s details for reporting cases include the office location at the state secretariat, New Complex in Lokoja, zone 8, room 12-16.
Victor, a school principal, commended the PDCRC team and pledged to collaborate with the commission to protect the rights of students and staff. The director general presented copies of the VAPP Law to the school, symbolising PDCRC’s commitment to promoting awareness and ensuring justice in Kogi State.
