Niger stakeholders reject palace settlements of rape cases, pledge to protect survivors
Stakeholders in Niger State have formally rejected the settlement of rape cases in traditional settings, asserting their commitment to report incidents of sexual and gender-based violence (GBV) to law enforcement agencies for thorough investigation and prosecution.
This resolution emerged during a two-day multi-level dialogue focused on the interpretation and adoption of GBV policies in Nigeria. Organized by Succour Foundation at Haske Luxury Hotel in Minna, the event brought together traditional rulers, religious leaders, security officials, government representatives, and community groups, all dedicated to enhancing protections for survivors.
Participants noted that addressing serious offenses through informal or traditional arrangements could obstruct access to justice for survivors and shield offenders from accountability. They urged community leaders to adhere to legal protocols in the management of reported cases.
Mrs. Anna Malgwi, programme coordinator of Succour Foundation, emphasized the necessity of synchronized action among traditional institutions, religious organizations, government entities, and security agencies to ensure that survivors receive the support and justice they require.
The gathering resulted in a commitment to fostering collaboration among various stakeholders, including the Nigeria Police Force, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), the Niger State Ministry of Women Affairs, and local community organizations. The goal is to enhance the reporting and handling of GBV cases.
Participants also pledged to confront the pervasive culture of silence surrounding gender-based violence through ongoing public awareness campaigns that inform communities about survivors’ rights and existing legal protections.
Traditional leaders, religious figures, and representatives from women’s and youth organizations committed to disseminating the knowledge acquired from the dialogue within their communities, places of worship, and organizations. They aim to promote prevention, early reporting, and respect for the rights of vulnerable individuals.
During the meeting, participants identified stigma, intimidation, fear of retaliation, and social pressure as significant barriers preventing survivors from reporting abuse. They called for improved confidentiality, protection, and access to support services for those affected.
Security agencies reiterated their dedication to managing GBV cases professionally and without further stigmatizing survivors. Meanwhile, representatives from the Ministry of Women Affairs expressed their commitment to advocating for the stronger adoption and implementation of relevant policies throughout the state and its local governments.
The stakeholders recognized the substantial influence traditional and religious leaders have on community responses to abuse and underscored the importance of leveraging this influence to facilitate access to justice for survivors.
To ensure the effectiveness of their resolutions, participants agreed to enhance community mobilization, public education, and awareness initiatives in Minna and Suleja. Women’s groups, youth representatives, traditional rulers, and members of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) are expected to lead these efforts.
They also resolved to utilize social media platforms to educate the public about accessible reporting channels and to mobilize communities against gender-based violence.
Additionally, participants committed to engaging with the Ministry of Women Affairs to improve policy adoption and implementation while advocating for better documentation and reporting of GBV cases.
The stakeholders concluded that meaningful progress in addressing gender-based violence would require sustained collaboration among government institutions, security agencies, traditional and religious leaders, and civil society organizations. They emphasized that ending GBV necessitates not only effective laws and institutions but also a fundamental shift in community attitudes so that survivors may come forward without fear of stigma or retaliation.
