The Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ) on Wednesday called for the establishment of family courts to support and expedite action against rape and children abuse cases in the country.
Hajiya Halima Dimis, the Zonal Secretary, Zone E, NAWOJ, made the appeal at a rally against rape organised by the Bauchi chapter of the association in Bauchi.
She said that with the increase in rape and violence cases against women and children, there was need for speedy action and punishment against perpetrators.
Dimis said family courts would effectively handle child and children issues, as well as protect the image, personality and integrity of the children and their parents.
“The courts are necessary to treat the growing number of child abuse cases, as it will also help the society to protect children better.
“It is necessary that states establish family courts to handle cases pertaining to children,” she said.
Earlier, Mrs Bulak Afsa, the Chairperson, NAWOJ, Bauchi State, stressed that unequal treatment and violence against women and girls remained a significant challenge in the country.
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She explained that hawking by girls should be discouraged, saying “girls are more likely to miss school, since they are often required to help in house chores or in earning money.
“Young girls working as street vendors in open and crowded places are vulnerable to violence and sexual abuse,” she said.
Afsa demanded that urgent action should be taken to combat rape and sexual violence against women in the country.
She also called on legislators and stakeholders to declare a state of emergency on rape and sexual violence.
On his part, Malam Umar Said, the State Council Chairman, Nigeria Union of Journalists, commended NAWOJ for its doggedness in the fight against rape, violence and abuse on women.
He pledged to support NAWOJ in its fight against any form of violence on women and children in the state.
