Speaker of the House of Representatives, Abbas Tajudeen, is scheduled to lead members of the legislature in a protest march to the Inspector General of Police over Gender-Based Violence.
The protest march, scheduled for Monday, November 25, according to a statement by the spokesperson of the House, Akin Rotimi, Jr.,
is in commemoration of this year’s International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women.
He said that the protest march will start from 8:00 a.m, with speaker’s car park in the National Assembly as the starting point and will end at the Nigeria Police Force Headquarters.
“The march will bring together over 1,000 participants, including Representatives and members of the public, on a symbolic walk from the National Assembly to the Headquarters of the Nigeria Police Force. “This demonstration of solidarity will culminate in the submission of a petition to the Inspector General of Police, demanding decisive action to safeguard vulnerable populations and ensure accountability for perpetrators of GBV.”
The statement quoted Speaker Abbas as saying: “this march and the associated activities are not just symbolic gestures; they reflect our resolve and call to action against gender-based violence head-on.
“We stand united in the fight to protect the rights and dignity of all Nigerians, especially the most vulnerable. Together, through collective action and legislative reforms, we can build a society where safety, justice, and equality prevail.”
The statement said that apart from the protest march, the Reps, in alignment with its Legislative Agenda (2023–2027), will also carry out other key activities to sustain awareness and action throughout the 16 Days of Activism.
Such activities including;
Sash Demonstration Ceremony scheduled for November 26, during which time they will “don orange sashes, symbolizing solidarity with the fight against GBV, during plenary sessions throughout the campaign period.”
There will be also Convergence of State Assembly Speakers on December 9, with a strategic meeting at the Transcorp Hilton, Abuja, of Speakers of State Houses of Assembly to discuss legislative strategies for combating GBV nationwide.
National Citizens’ Summit and GBV Conference 2024 will come up on December 10 to conclude the 16 Days of Activism, with discussions on constitutional reforms and securing endorsements for gender equality initiatives championed by the House.
“The House of Representatives invites all Nigerians to participate in this historic march on Monday, November 25, 2024. Participants will receive orange T-shirts – the official color of the United Nations campaign to end violence against women – symbolizing hope for a future free of violence.
“Gender-based violence continues to devastate families and communities across Nigeria. The 10th House of Representatives, however, remains steadfast in driving systemic reforms, fostering collaboration, and championing accountability to address this pervasive issue.
“Together, let us take a decisive stand for justice, equality, and the protection of human rights, paving the way for a safer, more equitable Nigeria.”
