In a recent incident that has shocked many in Edo State, Nigeria, a man identified as Mr. Jason Okhiria shot his wife following a domestic dispute. The victim, Mrs. Tina is currently recovering in a specialist hospital in the State, after her hand was amputated due to the severity of injuries she sustained after the gun shot.
In a show of solidarity and support, the First Lady of Edo State, Mrs. Betsy Obaseki, visited the victim at the hospital. This visit is not an isolated act of kindness but part of a broader, more comprehensive campaign against domestic and sexual violence, and child abuse that Mrs. Betsy Obaseki has been championing in the State.
Mrs. Betsy Obaseki’s efforts aligned with several international treaties and conventions aimed at protecting women and children’s rights. These include the United Nations Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW), the Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC) and the Declaration on the Elimination of Violence against Women. These international agreements underscored the fundamental human rights that every individual should enjoy, free from violence and discrimination.
In her capacity as First Lady, Mrs. Obaseki has been proactive in her fight against these societal ills. She has collaborated extensively with the State Government’s Ministry for Social Development and Gender Issues to address these issues head-on. Her initiatives include awareness campaigns, capacity-building workshops, and legal advocacy to ensure that victims get justice.
One of her notable initiatives is the establishment of the Edo Women for Agriculture and Enterprise programme. The programme empowers women economically and reduces their vulnerability to domestic violence. By providing women with the resources and skills to become financially independent, the programme aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) set by the United Nations, particularly Goal 5, which is target at achieving gender equality by empowering women and girls.
Mrs. Obaseki has been instrumental in setting up shelters for victims of domestic violence in Edo State which provide the victims a safe haven and access to counseling and legal services. These shelters operate in line with the guidelines set by the United Nations Entity for Gender Equality and the Empowerment of Women (UN Women).
The incident of domestic violence involving Mrs. Tina throw more highlights on the impact of Mrs. Betsy Obaseki’s work. It served as a stark reminder that the fight against domestic violence is far from over and that collective action is needed to eradicate this societal ill. As the First Lady continues her commendable work, she not only upholds the values enshrined in international treaties but also sets a powerful example for other states and countries to follow.
In addition to her work on domestic violence, Mrs. Betsy Obaseki has also been a strong advocate for child rights, aligning her initiatives with the principles of the Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC). She has launched several programmes aimed at improving access to education for children in Edo State particularly for girls and children from disadvantaged backgrounds. These initiatives are in line with the CRC’s provisions on the right to education and the best interests of the child.
Moreover, Mrs. Betsy Obaseki has been a vocal advocate for the implementation of the Violence Against Persons Prohibition Act (VAPP Act) in Edo State. The VAPP Act, which was passed by the Nigerian Federal Government in 2015, provides comprehensive measures to prevent and respond to violence, including domestic and sexual violence. Mrs. Obaseki’s advocacy for the VAPP Act demonstrates her commitment to aligning local laws with international standards on gender-based violence.
In conclusion, the First Lady’s efforts in championing the fight against domestic violence and her alignment with international treaties and conventions are commendable. Her work serves as a beacon of hope for victims and a stern warning to perpetrators. It is a testament to her commitment to the welfare of women and children in Edo State, and a model for other states in Nigeria and beyond.
*Peter-Imoisili is a Fellow, Women Deliver Young Leaders Fellowship Class of 2020.
