Edo Women Affairs Ministry As sures Commi tment To Womens’ Rights

BY FAVOUR PERCY-IDUBOR/BENIN

THE Edo State Ministry of Women Affairs and Social De­velopment has reaffirmed its commitment to protecting the rights, dignity and safety of every woman and girl in Edo State.

The Commissioner for the ministry, Mrs. Eugenia Abdallah, made this known during a press briefing ahead of the 2025 16 days if activism against gender based violence with the theme ‘Unite to End Digital Violence Against All Women and Girls’.

She said with the increasing use of digital platforms, many women and girls were becoming vulnerable to cyber bully­ing, online harassment, cyber stalking, identity theft, and the non-consensual sharing of intimate images.

She opined that digital spaces should inspire creativity, amplify voices, and connect communities and not become new territories for abuse and discrimination.

According to her, “this year’s global theme draws our atten­tion to a rapidly growing but often overlooked dimension of gender-based violence; online abuse and harm perpetrated through digital platforms.

“Digital Violence is real. Its psychological, emotional, social, and sometimes physical impact is just as devastating as offline violence. And because it can follow victims anywhere, anytime, its reach is limitless.

“As a government, we can not allow the digital world, where our children, specifically our daughters learn, socialise, and build their futures, to become a space of fear, intimidation, and harm” she said.

Abdallah revealed that Edo State has taken significant steps in strengthening the protection of women and girls by establishing and expanding Sexual Assult Referral Centres in Benin City and Uromi.

She acknowledged the unwavering support of governor Monday Okpebholo, saying his administration continues to prioritize the safety, empowerment, and diginity of women and girls across the state. “ His commitment to strengthen­ing institutions, policies and community- driven resources has created an enabling environment for this campaign” , she noted.

Also, she commended the Coordinator offer of the first lady, Edo State, Mrs Edesili Anani, for her steadfast advocacy and consistent partnership with the Ministry of Women Affairs.