The Speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Adebo Ogundoyin, has publicly endorsed the ongoing efforts to review the Oyo State Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Law 2020, highlighting its significance in enhancing the legal framework designed to prevent and respond to sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV) in the state. This statement came during a meeting with Henry Odeh, a member of the newly inaugurated End Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (ESGBV) Media Corps, at the Parliamentary Complex in Ibadan.
Ogundoyin's support for the review is rooted in the recognition that while the 2020 VAPP Law marked a critical milestone in the fight against violence, evolving social realities and implementation challenges necessitate periodic legislative updates. He emphasized that a comprehensive review would not only address existing gaps but also ensure that victims and survivors of SGBV receive the protection and justice they deserve.
The Speaker's remarks come at a time when the issue of gender-based violence is increasingly coming under scrutiny in Nigeria, with calls for stronger legal frameworks to safeguard vulnerable populations. Ogundoyin stated, "Reviewing the law is necessary to address emerging realities and ensure that victims receive adequate protection and access to justice." He reaffirmed the Assembly's commitment to creating legislation that promotes justice, dignity, and accountability for all citizens.
The proposed review of the VAPP Law is expected to strengthen institutional responses to SGBV, clarify the responsibilities of relevant agencies, and enhance mechanisms for survivor protection. Ogundoyin expressed optimism that stakeholders would actively participate in the review process, ensuring that any amendments reflect the realities and needs of the people of Oyo State.
In his address, Odeh highlighted the importance of examining areas within the existing law that could be fortified to better respond to contemporary forms of violence. He expressed confidence that the review would provide an opportunity to harmonize provisions, tackle implementation challenges, and bolster safeguards against SGBV in the state.
The review process is also supported by a recent workshop organized by the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) in collaboration with the European Union. The workshop aimed to enhance public engagement on SGBV issues across various states, including Oyo, by improving media coverage and community-based communication strategies. The initiative seeks to shift the narrative around SGBV reporting from sensationalist and fragmented coverage to a more professional, survivor-centered approach that emphasizes prevention and access to reliable information.
Ogundoyin underscored the necessity of collaboration among various stakeholders, including the legislature, executive, judiciary, law enforcement agencies, civil society organizations, and the media, in the fight against SGBV. He called for increased awareness of the provisions of the VAPP Law, stressing that legislation can only achieve its intended purpose when citizens are informed about their rights and the institutions responsible for enforcement are well-equipped.
The Speaker commended the efforts of organizations and individuals working tirelessly to end sexual and gender-based violence in Oyo State. He assured them of the Assembly's readiness to support initiatives aimed at strengthening prevention, reporting, prosecution, and survivor support. Ogundoyin emphasized that addressing violence against women, children, and other vulnerable groups requires not only robust legislation but also sustained enforcement and collective action from all sectors of society.
As the review process unfolds, it is crucial for stakeholders to engage in constructive dialogue to ensure that the amended legislation effectively addresses the complexities of SGBV in Oyo State. The commitment from the Speaker and the Assembly to prioritize this issue reflects a growing recognition of the need for a comprehensive approach to combat violence against persons, which is essential for fostering a safer and more equitable society. the ongoing review of the VAPP Law represents a proactive step towards enhancing the legal protections for victims of sexual and gender-based violence in Oyo State. As the Assembly prepares to consider proposed amendments, the involvement of various stakeholders will be vital in shaping a legal framework that is responsive to the needs of the community and effective in combating violence against vulnerable populations.