by FIDAFIDA Nigeria Decries Persistent Abductions, Demands Comprehensive Strategy to End the Menace
As a nation, education must be guaranteed for every child, delivered in environments that are safe, nurturing, and peaceful, where care and protection are assured so that every child can grow and become their best.
We invest heavily in advocacy promoting education. Yet, when children finally make it into the classroom, what becomes of them?
Time and again, we are confronted with devastating news of attacks on schools and the abduction of students, particularly girls, leaving parents terrified and grieving while school authorities struggle to find effective measures to protect the children entrusted to them.
How many more children must be taken before the government adopts aggressive and proactive measures to end this menace?
The abduction of at least 25 girls in Kebbi State, alongside the cold-blooded killing of a vice principal and a security guard who bravely resisted, strikes at the very core of our humanity. We cannot remain unmoved. This tragedy inflicts a pain that words can scarcely describe.
Communities are deeply scarred, carrying the weight of repeated tragedies. Every new abduction reopens these wounds, leaving families in anguish and entire communities in despair.
A nation that cannot safeguard its children, especially its daughters, within their schools has failed in its most sacred duty.
The government’s foremost responsibility is to protect the lives and property of its citizens, yet the consequences of inaction continue to unfold as communities live in fear with no certainty, no protection, and no hope.
Today it is Kebbi; tomorrow it could be anywhere, closer to any of us. We cannot continue like this. We must rise, united and resolute, demanding immediate action, real accountability, and lasting security in all our communities.
Our children deserve to learn, to dream, and to grow without fear. The time for the government to act is NOW. Let us secure our communities.
FIDA Nigeria strongly condemns these heinous acts and calls on all relevant agencies to move swiftly and decisively to ensure justice and protection for our children. Let us restore safety in our schools and communities.
To the families currently grieving, our hearts are with you.
Act Now. Save Lives.
Signed
Eliana Martins
Country Vice President and National President
Chineze Obianyo
National Publicity Secretary and Editor-in-Chief
by FIDAFIDA Nigeria, Epe Branch – Case UpdateDate: 12th November, 2025Case: State vs. Ediri Igbudu Melvin (Charge No: LD/24314C)Matter: A Case of Brutal Femicide
Today, the FIDA Nigeria Epe Branch once again appeared in court to represent the family of the late Thecla in pursuit of justice in this ongoing femicide case.
The court sat with both the Applicant’s and Defendant’s Counsel present. FIDA Nigeria was represented by Uchenna Ogwo Esq., Ejadairo Ekpo Esq., and Olorunkemi T. Eche-Olisenye Esq.
However, the Investigating Police Officer (IPO), who is a key witness, was absent, stalling the continuation of trial. The Court granted an adjournment and directed that the IPO must be present on the next date, 11th December 2025 at 12 noon, to give evidence.
The case has drawn significant public and media attention, with social commentator VeryDarkMan (VDM) also in attendance, showing support for the victim’s family.
FIDA Nigeria remains steadfast in standing against gender-based violence and ensuring justice for women and children.
FIDANigeria #FIDAepe #JusticeForEdiri #SayNoToFemicide #AccessToJustice #StopGenderBasedViolence #FIDAStandsForJustice
by FIDABuilding Safer Communities, Strengthening Voices Against GBV in Plateau State!
To deepen community accountability and promote a culture of zero tolerance for Gender-Based Violence (GBV), FIDA Nigeria convened a two-day Shared Learning Forum for Local Gatekeepers on GBV Prevention in Plateau State from 29th–30th October 2025.
The forum brought together traditional rulers, faith leaders, government representatives, and community advocates who exchanged insights, reflected on local realities, and mapped out strategies to reinforce GBV prevention across Plateau communities.
At the close of discussions, participants made firm commitments through community action plans focused on:
✅ Expanding advocacy and awareness campaigns on key protection laws such as the VAPP Law (2022), Child Rights Law (2005), Penal Code (2017), and GEOLAW (2015).
✅ Reviewing and formulating community bye-laws in Jos North, Riyom, and Bokkos LGAs to improve enforcement.
✅ Holding sensitization meetings for youth groups, women fellowships, and faith-based institutions.
✅ Conducting advocacy visits to key religious leaders — including the Chief Imam of Jos Central Mosque, CAN leadership, and theological schools — to amplify GBV prevention messages.
These resolutions reflect a strong and united front in the fight against GBV — a step closer to ensuring that every woman and girl in Plateau State lives free from violence, discrimination, and fear.
FIDANigeria #EndGBV
by FIDAStrengthening Community Action Against GBV: FIDA Nigeria Convenes 2nd Shared Learning Forum in Ekiti State
In its continuous effort to curb Gender-Based Violence (GBV) and advance gender justice, FIDA Nigeria convened the 2nd Shared Learning Forum in Ekiti State a strategic engagement under its Ford Foundation-supported GBV prevention programme.
The forum served as more than a meeting of minds; it was a powerful space for reflection, learning, and renewed commitment. Participants including state actors, traditional rulers, religious leaders, and community influencers came together to assess progress, share insights, and deepen collective strategies for ending violence against women and girls.
Building on previous dialogues with cultural and traditional leaders, the session reinforced the importance of transforming entrenched social and cultural norms that fuel GBV. It also spotlighted the critical role of community gatekeepers as custodians of change, capable of inspiring a ripple effect of positive behavior and attitudes within their communities.
By sharing practical experiences and measurable progress, stakeholders renewed their pledge to uphold the principles of equality, dignity, and justice.
FIDA Nigeria remains confident that the outcomes of this shared learning engagement will inspire real change strengthening networks, catalyzing community-driven initiatives, and fostering environments where women and girls can live free from violence and fear.
by FIDATransforming Tradition into Tools for Justice: FIDA Nigeria Leads Engagement with Faith and Cultural Leaders
Through strategic engagement with traditional and religious leaders, FIDA Nigeria is transforming the same platforms that once silenced victims into powerful tools for justice and protection.
At a recent engagement in Ikeja, we emphasized that real change begins when faith, culture, and justice stand together — on the side of protection, equality, and respect for every woman and girl. The forum, supported by the Ford Foundation, focused on shifting harmful norms, strengthening partnerships, and mobilizing communities to take concrete action against violence.
FIDA Nigeria will not relent until every home becomes a place of safety, every community a defender of women’s rights, and every act of violence a thing of the past.
by FIDAInternational Day of the Girl Child 2025
Theme: “The Girl I Am, The Change I Lead: Girls on the Frontlines of Crisis.”
The story of the Nigerian girl is no longer one of silence. It is a story of capacity, inner strength, resilience, courage and leadership.
She is not the future; she is the now, leading change, driving innovation, and turning moments of crisis into opportunities for protection and growth.
Across Nigeria, girls are proving that leadership has no age and resilience has no limit. From Amara Nwuneli, winner of the 2025 Earth Prize for Environmental Innovation for transforming a landfill in Lagos into a safe playground using recycled tires, to Mary Victor Zira, who is rebuilding hope for displaced children through education in conflict-affected areas of Borno State, and Akachukwu Blessed Nwachukwu and Ifunanya Gabriella Okoye, who founded local tech hubs to teach girls coding and digital creativity, these young change makers are redefining what it means to lead and FIDA celebrates them all with unknown names working silently in their communities.
This year’s theme, “The Girl I Am, The Change I Lead,” captures their essence: bold, visionary, and relentless even in the face of challenges and hardship. They rise from the ashes overcoming obstacles such as poverty, insecurity, and harmful traditions to champion causes that protect not just themselves but their communities.
Education remains their most powerful tool. It fuels innovation, breaks the chains of inequality, and gives girls a voice. Yet millions of Nigerian girls still face barriers such as early marriage, gender-based violence, and insecurity that threaten their dreams.
FIDA Nigeria believes that when a girl learns, she transforms her world. Her education is not a privilege; it is her Right!
We also recognize and commend the incredible work being done by organizations, agencies, groups, movements, and different initiatives across Nigeria that continue to empower girls by providing support and mentorship, safe spaces, enabling education, and carrying out advocacy opportunities that help them to survive, thrive and eventually lead.
At FIDA Nigeria, we identify with such groups and remain steadfast in defending the rights of girls through legal aid, advocacy, and community engagement. The rights of the Nigerian girl are protected under the Child Rights Act (2003), the Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Act (2015), and global instruments such as CEDAW and the African Charter on the Rights and Welfare of the Child. However, just laws alone are not enough; they must be lived out in classrooms, communities, and every corner where girls still fight to be heard. We must adopt a multifaceted approach to support and empower the girl child to succeed.
We therefore call on all tiers of government, civil society, and communities to:
- Invest deliberately in girls’ education and leadership, ensuring no girl is left behind.
- Protect girls from all forms of violence and exploitation through stronger enforcement of protection laws.
- Create spaces for girls’ participation in decision making, from schools to national platforms.
We the Nigerian Girl continuing to rise like a hibiscus after the storm, innovating, rebuilding, and inspiring. She is not a footnote in Nigeria’s story; she is the Story.
We celebrate the Nigerian Girl Child!
When one girl leads, generations follow!!
For : FIDA Nigeria
Signed:
Eliana Martins
Country Vice President / National President
FIDA Nigeria
Chineze Obianyo
National Publicity Secretary
FIDA Nigeria
by FIDAA Trailblazer in Silk FIDA Nigeria Applauds Mrs. Oyinkansola Badejo-Okusanya, SAN
FIDA Nigeria proudly celebrates Mrs. Oyinkansola Badejo-Okusanya, one of our own on her elevation to the prestigious rank of Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN); a crowning achievement born of brilliance, resilience and unshakable dedication to the legal profession.
This milestone is far more than a personal triumph; it is a beacon of inspiration to women in law and beyond. It reaffirms that with courage, excellence and determination, women can shatter barriers and rise to the very pinnacle of the Bar, making history along the way.
As she steps into this new chapter, adorned in silk, we are confident that Mrs. Badejo-Okusanya will continue to embody the values of FIDA justice, service and dignity for women and children while blazing a trail for the next generation of female advocates.
FIDA Nigeria celebrates her as a trailblazer, a torchbearer and a shining example for all.
by FIDAFrom Call to Bar to Captivity: FIDA Nigeria Condemns Abduction of Barrister Peace Udoka Onyesom
The International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA) Nigeria condemns the abduction of Barrister Peace Udoka Onyesom and her sister on September 27, 2025, along the Lokoja–Okene highway in Kogi State.
Barrister Onyesom, who was recently called to the Bar, was traveling to Benin, Edo State, when she and her sister were seized. Reports say their captors demand ₦20 million ransom, a cruel blow to her family, friends, and the legal community.
FIDA Nigeria demands:
- Immediate rescue by security agencies to ensure their safe return.
- Support for the family, including psychological and moral assistance.
- Stronger highway security, declaring a state of emergency on road safety.
- Justice, with perpetrators investigated and prosecuted.
Barrister Onyesom symbolizes the hopes of young Nigerian women pursuing law with dignity and courage. Her abduction is a painful reminder of the insecurity citizens face daily.
FIDA Nigeria stands firmly with her family and calls on authorities and all Nigerians to act until the sisters are safely reunited with their loved ones.
Signed,
Eliana Martins
Country Vice President, FIDA Nigeria
Chineze Obianyo
National Publicity Secretary
FIDA Nigeria
by FIDAFIDA Nigeria Side Event at the NBA-AGC 2025 – Enugu
FIDA Nigeria Side Event at the NBA-AGC 2025 – Enugu
At the just-concluded NBA Annual General Conference in Enugu, FIDA Nigeria lit up the conference with her Side Event themed:
“Stand Out, Stand Tall: Building Resilience for Excellence; Effective Implementation of Gender Parity and Protection of the Nigerian Child.”
From the very beginning, it was clear this was no ordinary session. The hall filled up quickly, overflowing with participants judges, SANs, magistrates, law professors, Ministry of Justice officials, young wigs, students, and even our cherished HeForShes. Those who couldn’t find a seat stood outside, determined not to miss a word.
In her stirring keynote, the Country Vice President of FIDA Nigeria, Eliana Martins, urged women to “Stand Out, Stand Tall” by living with resilience, integrity, and service. She made a bold call for reserved seats for women in leadership and stronger child protection laws reminding us all that true justice cannot exist where women and children are sidelined.
The event drew an impressive roll call of eminent personalities: Justices Angela Anidi (Rtd), Ngozika Oji, Augusta Uche Kingsley-Chuku, Prof. Lizzy Oji, and Catherine Nwobodo; renowned academics like Prof. M.V.C. Ozioko and Prof. Chika Chinweze; Dr. Mercy Oke-Chinda, Adejoke Layi-Babatunde (representing Senator Biodun Olujimi); and many other champions of justice who came with one purpose to stand with women and children.
The atmosphere was electric. NBA female national officers were in full force, with a goodwill message from the First Vice President, Zainab Aminu Garba. We also celebrated Mrs Oyinkansola Badejo Okusanya, our newly conferred Learned Silk, with prayers that more women will rise to the rank in years to come.
FIDA Benue stole hearts when they proudly dressed and prayed for the CVP, while seniors and colleagues from the Bar lent their voices in support. It wasn’t just an event it felt like a family gathering, with branches, friends, and collaborators all coming together in unity and excitement.
And through it all, one message rang loud and clear:
Every woman deserves a voice.
Every child deserves protection.
Every community deserves justice.
That is the promise of FIDA Nigeria. A promise we will continue to keep.
FIDANigeria #NBAAGC2025 #StandOutStandTall #GenderParity #ChildProtection #WomenInLeadership #JusticeForAll
by FIDAFIDA NIGERIA CALLS FOR GENDER SENSITIVE SECURITY PROCEDURES AND ACCOUNTABILITY IN THE AVIATION INDUSTRY
FIDA Nigeria has followed with concern the recent events surrounding the forcible evacuation of Ms. Comfort Emmanson from an Ibom Air flight on August 10, 2025, and the subsequent immediate lifetime “No Fly” ban issued by the Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON).
While we maintain that violence or unruly conduct onboard an aircraft is unacceptable and must be addressed within the ambit of the law, we are equally disturbed by the manner in which this incident was handled and the broader implications for passengers’ rights, due process, and the image of Nigeria’s aviation sector.
From the available footage of the forceful evacuation of Ms. Comfort from the Ibom Air aircraft, and from eyewitness accounts, we seek clarification as to why the female Aviation Security (AVSEC) officers present were not instructed to apprehend the female passenger in line with best practices and gender sensitive arrest protocols.
Furthermore, we are concerned as to why Ms. Emmanson was detained in the plane until other passengers left, and whether having been forcibly removed from the aircraft, was duly informed of her rights before being formally placed under arrest.
We are quite alarmed that the evacuation of Ms. Emmanson degenerated into what appeared to be an undignified mob scene, with multiple spectators recording instead of a controlled and professional intervention.
We are furthermore shocked at the deliberate release of such a recording to the public space.
We earnestly demand that Ibom Air provide the official in-flight recordings to clarify what actually transpired before the incident escalated and degenerated to violence fits on both sides. We stress that both sides must be objectively heard and full investigation must take place before any punishment is dispensed.
FIDA Nigeria believes that the video of her humiliation and forceful removal, which circulated widely in the public space, clearly violated her fundamental right to dignity and privacy as enshrined in the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended); Not to mention the No Flight lifetime ban without full investigation which can be construed as an infringement of her right to fair hearing and a violation of her right to movement.
FIDA Nigeria is further troubled by the apparent awareness of the officers that they were being filmed, and the subsequent prioritization of optics over good etiquette, due process and lawful procedure. Such conduct also warrants prompt disciplinary action.
Additionally, the swiftness with which the lifetime ban was imposed which raises concerns as to whether due process was fully observed also points to the differential treatment in the last two cases of misconduct at the airport where the person’s concerned left with a pat on the wrist and a blatant disregard of the constitutional presumption of innocence in her favour, until proven otherwise by a competent Court.
As a nation governed by the rule of law, disciplinary measures must across board be proportionate, evidence based, and follow transparent investigation. That way, justice will not only be done but seen to be done.
We note that eyewitness accounts do not conclusively establish what occurred inside the aircraft after other passengers had disembarked. The absence of such clarity undermines confidence in the fairness of the sanction.
This incident has exposed broader systemic gaps in Nigeria’s aviation security framework. It suggests that AVSEC personnel may not be adequately trained to handle such situations professionally and proportionately.
FIDA Nigeria calls on stakeholders in the aviation industry to implement measures that immediately adequately sensitize passengers about expected conduct and the legal consequences of unruly behavior.
Regular training and retraining of airline personnel and aviation marshals should be conducted to strengthen crisis management protocols and de-escalate threats onboard and at our airports. This will ensure operational lapses do not fuel public disorder while safeguarding the rights of passengers.
Passengers have rights and must at all times be treated with respect and dignity. Likewise passengers must reciprocate and cooperate with airlines and airport officials in the discharge of their necessary roles.
The handling of this case must serve as a catalyst for stakeholder engagement, bringing together security agencies, airlines, civil society, and passenger advocacy groups to ensure that safety, rights, and dignity are upheld equally.
As advocates for justice, we reiterate that safety in aviation must never come at the expense of human rights, and human rights must never compromise safety. Both can and must be achieved through professionalism, training, and accountability.
We urge the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), AVSEC, and the Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON) to urgently review their stance, withdraw the life ban, and offer an apology to the passenger; reform their security and crisis response protocols, and conduct an objective full investigation into the current incidence, before any punishment is dispensed.
FIDA Nigeria is interested in this matter.
Signed
Eliana Martins
Country Vice President
FIDA Nigeria
Chineze Obianyo
National Publicity Secretary
FIDA Nigeria
