The Kaduna State government has reasserted its dedication to eradicating Gender-Based Violence (GBV), with a specific emphasis on combating rape. Commissioner for Human Services and Social Development, Rabi Salisu, made a resolute announcement regarding severe punishments for those found guilty of rape during a press conference held on Thursday.
Under the Kaduna State Government Violence Against Persons Prohibition Law (VAPPL) of 2018, Salisu declared that male perpetrators of rape would face surgical castration, while female offenders would undergo bilateral salpingectomy. These measures underscore the state’s unwavering commitment to tackling the deeply rooted issue of GBV.
The VAPPL was enacted following extensive advocacy, lobbying, and awareness campaigns led by civil society organizations in collaboration with government agencies. This legislative framework reflects a comprehensive approach to addressing and curbing the prevalence of gender-based crimes in the state.
Dr. Austin Azihaiwe, the state Technical Lead for the Centre for Integrated Health Programs (CIHP), highlighted the commencement of the 16-day activism against GBV, known as the ‘Orange the World’ Campaign, initiated in 1991. He emphasized that the activities associated with this campaign aim to unite all stakeholders, leveraging their resources and capacity to make a more significant impact in the ongoing fight against GBV within communities.
Kaduna’s decisive measures against rapists signal a robust stance in fostering a safer environment for its residents, underlining the importance of legislative interventions and collaborative efforts in the battle against gender-based crimes.
