ABEOKUTA– The Secure Our Life group in conjunction with the 100 Women Lobby Group has launched a campaign against kidnapping and insecurity in Nigeria with the aim of calling on the Federal Government to giving utmost priority to the security of life and properties of the citizens.
The campaign, which was held the Pious de pious Event Center, Abeokuta, the ogun state capital had other groups, Nigeria Association of women journalists (NAWOJ), Gender Development Initiative (GENDI), (WAHPOD), Priceless Jewel Foundation, and others as collaborators.
Speaking at the event, the first lady of Ogun State, Mrs Bamidele Abiodun pledged her support to the campaign, adding that, she will always be supportive to any great work that supports the wellness of women in the society.
Mrs Abiodun, who was represented by the wife of the Permanent Secretary Ministry of Agriculture, Mrs Veronica Sorunke maintained that it is important for government to provide a safe space for it’s citizens to thrive.
“Providing a safe space where our people, no matter how young or old, can come forward and speak up without fear, if they are experiencing any form of violence is the first step to recovery, and hopefully to a future free of violence.
“Drawing attention of government and those in authority is then the next step; and after that, continuing to apply pressure until we begin to see changes.
“These are some of the things we must do to sustain this campaign and I am happy to see this as part of your plans. She said.
“I am glad about the “Secure our lives campaing and as, I said earlier in the year, a robust approach to information, education, and communication on issues relating to violence and promotion of peaceare needed accross country.
“People need to, not only know that “secure our lives exist , but they can join and support the campaign. Informational programs should be extended to the entire community and people Should be encouraged to speak for peace.
“Thank you once again to the “Secure ourlives campaign”. You have my support with the great work you are doing, and I look forward to working with you.
“We should take our message to the traditional and religious institution, the schoolls and the social gathering. This is the only way we can ensure that we witness the change that we so desperately need today”, Mrs Bamidele emphasized.
The Ogun State Co-ordinator of 100 Women Lobby Group, Prof. Olubunmi Ashimolowo, stated that the campaign was sprung up because of the high level of the insecurities in the country, adding that it is a collective effort that is done in Nigeria.
“We as women, we are saying no to insecurity in Nigeria. Because violence is on the increase, schools are closing down, communities are being rendered incapacitated, police force is overwhelmed”.
“The system is not working persay, when I say the system, I mean things are not working in terms of security in Nigeria, so, as women we feels it time to come out to lend our voices out for collective actions”. Olubunmi expressed”.
Presents at the event includes, Commissioner of police, Edward Ajogun represented by the police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), DSP Abinmbola Oyeyemi, Commissioner for Women Affairs, Mrs. Funmilayo Efuape, represented by Mrs Wonuola Kazeem, Sirkin Fulani herdsmen group in Ayetoro, and Alabata, Saidu Adam, and other dignitaries in Ogun state.
