Emir of Ilorin Calls on Traditional Rulers to Lead Fight Against Gender-Based Violence
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Emir of Ilorin Calls on Traditional Rulers to Lead Fight Against Gender-Based Violence
By Kaosara Olayemi Oladimeji
The Emir of Ilorin, Dr. Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari, has urged traditional rulers to take the lead in combating Gender-Based Violence (GBV) in their communities.
Speaking at a stakeholders’ meeting in Ilorin on Wednesday, the Kwara State capital, the Emir emphasized the crucial role traditional rulers play in shaping societal norms and values.
Represented by the Daudu Jeje of Ilorin, Alh. Al-Haeri Abdulwahab, the Emir condemned the rising cases of GBV, noting that such acts undermine the dignity, security, and well-being of individuals, families, and entire communities.
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He called on his fellow traditional rulers to use their influence to challenge harmful norms, prevent violence, and support survivors.
The Emir stressed that ending GBV requires a collaborative effort between traditional rulers, government agencies, and civil society organizations.
He encouraged the adoption and implementation of the GBV Prevention and Advocacy Toolkit, launched at the gathering, to drive meaningful change.
Kwara State Governor, Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to combating GBV through policy enforcement, legal action, and community-driven initiatives.
Represented by his Senior Special Assistant on Community Development, Dr. Lawal Olohungbebe, the governor commended BBYDI for its advocacy efforts and stressed the need for a multi-sectoral approach to tackling the issue.
Also, the First Lady of Kwara State, Ambassador Olufolake Abdulrazaq, also expressed her support for initiatives aimed at protecting the rights and dignity of women and girls.
Earlier, the BBYDI’s Executive Director, Nura Jimoh, highlighted the organisation’s ongoing efforts to combat GBV, including engagements with first-class traditional rulers, GBV prevention workshops for high chiefs, and radio advocacy programs.
She described the recent tragic murder of Lawal Hafsoh Yetunde in Ilorin by a self-acclaimed Islamic cleric, Abdulrahman Mohd Ballo, as a stark reminder of the urgent need for action.
“This is not just a personal or family issue; it is a societal crisis that demands collective intervention. We must all do more to protect women and girls from all forms of violence,” she stated.
The meeting, themed ‘Mobilising Stakeholders for Action Against GBV in Kwara’, was convened by the Brain Builders Youth Development Initiative (BBYDI).
