CITIZENS COMPASS —Sustainable Gender Action Initiative has condemned the alleged assault on Dr Olubunmi Osadahun, the Commissioner for Women Affairs in Ondo State, by a Ward chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), in Akoko North West est, Ondo State, Olumide Awolumate.
The alleged assault occurred over the weekend, following sharing of federal government palliative in the area.
The Initiative in a statement signed by its Executive Director, Mufuliat Fijabi, on Monday, September 18, 2023.
The statement played on the negative impact of the assault describing it as lack of respect on the Commissioner and the office she occupies.
It reads, “Sustainable Gender Action Initiative hereby expresses its displeasure and condemns in very strong terms, the acts of physical violence perpetrated against the person of Dr Olubunmi Osadahun, Honorable Commissioner for Women Affairs, Ondo State.
” This act of violence perpetrated by a ward Chairman, Olumide Awolumate, of the All Progressive Congress in Arigidi, in Akoko North West, over palliatives, further reiterates the negative impact of patriarchy and absolute lack of respect for her person and the office she holds.
“This totally unacceptable act is no doubt a reflection of gender based violence that is prevalent across the country which calls for an absolute condemnation by all. Women and girls deserve respect and dignity.
” This is inspite of all the international and regional commitments that Nigeria has made as well as the adoption of the Violence Against Persons Prohibition, (VAPP) Act in 2015. The Ondo State Government has also domesticated the VAPP Act in 2021.
” While the video clip displaying violent attack on the Honorable Commissioner has gone viral, SGAI wishes to state categorically that expedited action on investigation and prosecution will contribute significantly to setting a good precedent that will deter others who are currently engaged in acts of violence against persons publicly and privately.”
Sustainable Gender Action Initiative, Abuja, is a not for profit, civil society organization focused on inclusive governance and advocacy against sexual and gender based violence.
