Banditry: Katsina stakeholders push for strong action against sexual abuse

By Abbas Bamalli

Some stakeholders in humanitarian and security sectors have advocated strong action to prevent conflict-related sexual violence (CRSV) in Katsina State.

They called for domestication of the Violence Against Persons Prohibition (VAPP) Act, and improved support for survivors.

The stakeholders stated this on Saturday at a policy dialogue being organised by the Strengthening Peace and Resilience in Nigeria (sPRiNG) programme in partnership with the Mother of Inmates Support and Humanitarian Aid.

The dialogue is part of activities to mark the 2026 International Day for the Elimination of Sexual Violence in Conflict.

Miss Hajara Yusuf, an official of the Katsina Ministry of Women Affairs, described conflict-related sexual violence as a growing concern worsened by banditry and displacement.

She said the ministry was working with partners to strengthen prevention and ensure survivors received medical, legal and psychosocial support.

Mr Lawal Alhassan, Director, Administration and Supply, Katsina Ministry of Internal Security and Home Affairs, said the ministry was collaborating with security agencies to improve protection in vulnerable communities through intelligence-led operations and community policing.

Also, Maimuna Musa-Gani, representative of the International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA), called for the domestication of the VAPP Act, and free legal services for the survivors.

On his part, Sabo Abdulkadeer, Regional Manager, sPRiNG programme, reaffirmed commitment to the protection of vulnerable groups and strengthening peacebuilding in the state.

Participants also identified rape, abduction, forced marriage, sexual exploitation and weak access to justice services as major challenges facing women and girls in conflict-affected communities.

They recommended for the domestication of the VAPP Act, improved funding for Sexual Assault Referral Centres, strong coordination among relevant agencies, as well as increased awareness campaigns and improved support services for survivors.

“The state government must strengthen policies and institutions to prevent conflict-related sexual violence and ensure justice for survivors.”

The event was attended by government officials, representatives of security agencies, civil society organisations, development partners, women’s groups, among others.

(NAN)