by FIDASTATEMENT CONDEMNING THE RECENT ATTACKS ON THE HON JUSTICE MARY ODILI, JSC.
The International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA) Nigeria is alarmed at the total politicization of most issues going on in the country, particularly legal cases that have been referred to the courts for adjudication.
We refer to the recent incident where the Hon Justice Mary Odili, JSC is a victim of abuse, attacks on her person and character, not to mention an invasion of her privacy because of a judgment delivered by a panel she headed in the normal course of her work.
Hon Justice Odili, JSC as a human being, Nigerian and especially as a Justice of The Supreme Court of Nigeria, the highest court of Record in the country deserves respect and protection.
The attacks on her character and premises are certainly not the way to go because of a perceived ‘unfavourable’ judgment. FIDA NIGERIA sees this as violence against a reputable woman carrying out her lawful duty.
Whilst members of the public are entitled to express their opinions freely, it must, however, be done lawfully without infringing the rights of another.
Consequently, we condemn these attacks and the invasion of her personal space.
The Judiciary as the third arm of government must be treated as such, and accorded the full status and respect it deserves; blackmail and threats to an Honourable Justice are of grave concern and certainly does not guarantee the independence of the judiciary.
We call for quick action to stop this negative trend and to stop the inciting statements that heat the polity. There are proper and well laid out legal protocols and processes to be followed when you are dissatisfied with the outcome of the judgement. FIDA Nigeria encourages the use of these processes rather than the tarnishing of the good reputation of a great woman who has diligently and passionately served her country and reached the pinnacle of her profession.
FIDA Nigeria condemns the aforementioned and calls on the Federal Government and indeed all relevant security agencies in the country to be more proactive and vigilant in their duties; they must protect the judiciary and keep them independent without any undue interference.
Lady Justice is blind and impartial; let us work to keep her as such.
Signed for FIDA Nigeria:
Rhoda Prevail Tyoden
Country Vice President/National President
FIDA Nigeria
Eliana Martins
National publicity secretary
FIDA Nigeria
by FIDAZERO TOLERANCE FOR FEMALE GENITAL MUTILATION
FIDA Nigeria joins the rest of the world to mark International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation with the theme: “Unleashing Youth Power: One Decade of Accelerating Actions for Zero Female Genital Mutilation.”
Female Genital Mutilation has a long standing physical and mental effect on the persons subjected to it.
The practice violates a person’s right to health, security and physical integrity, the right to be free from torture and cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment, and the right to life when the procedure results in death
Nigeria as a member of the United Nations has ratified many UN Human Rights Conventions and thus has made binding international commitments to adhere to the standards laid down in these universal human rights documents. Hence, Nigeria is bound by Article 25 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights which states that “everyone has the right to a standard of living adequate for health and well-being”.
In addition, Section 34(1) of the 1999 Constitution as amended, provides that “every Nigerian individual is entitled to respect for the dignity of his person and accordingly (a) No person shall be subjected to torture or to inhuman or degrading treatment”.
Furthermore, Section 11 of the Child Rights Act (2003) also protects the right to the dignity of the child while Section 6 of the Violence Against Persons Prohibition (VAPP) Act 2015, expressly prohibits female circumcision or genital mutilation.
There is no gainsaying that there are a plethora of statutes and laws in Nigeria that prohibit this harmful practice.
However, the issue that confronts us is the implementation of these laws. Laws are made to tackle and eliminate crime, but when not implemented, they become paper tigers. The Girl child and indeed women are major victims of this act often running away and seeking asylum
We as a people also need to realize that though the government owes us a responsibility to protect our rights, we also need to ensure we take action to safeguard these same rights. The perpetrators of this heinous crime are living amongst us. Young women and girls have suffered seriously as a result of this crime, it is time we all stand up against these practices. Men have lost their mothers, wives, sisters and daughters to this harmful practice that many believe is a custom that must be upheld. NO tradition should be practiced to the detriment of our lives and loved ones.
As human beings, we have the right to choose what happens to our bodies, we have the right to abolish harmful traditional practices and to celebrate the noble and harmless ones. Lives can be preserved if we all including the young ones take a stand to make a difference. We can achieve all things if we act in unison and speak with one voice.
FIDA Nigeria as an organization that protects and promotes the rights of women in Nigeria in line with the theme calls the youths to action. The future we wish to see, starts today. The youth must take a stand and challenge the “norm” in their respective cultures. No more lives should be lost on account of our blind allegiance to a dreadful tradition.
FIDA Nigeria also calls on the government to implement the laws that have been enacted to prohibit Female Genital Mutilation in Nigeria. Having taken the first step in abolishing the practice, government can and should take further steps to arrest and prosecute the perpetrators of this crime so it serves as a deterrent to others.
FIDA Nigeria will continue to do all within her mandate to fight against Female Genital Mutilation and work to ensure that women and children can live in a society free from this menace. We believe that every human life matters, and must be treated with respect and dignity.
FIDA NIGERIA stands against Female Genital Mutilation, let’s put an end to it.
#YouthsEndFGM
#EndFGM
Rhoda Prevail Tyoden
Country Vice President/National President
FIDA Nigeria
Eliana Martins
National publicity secretary
FIDA Nigeria
by FIDAAdvert for the Recruitment of Finance Officer
FIDA Nigeria invites job applications for a Finance Officer position at the National Secretariat. The deadline for submission is Thursday, 23 January, 2020. All applications should be submitted to fidanigeria@yahoo.com. Other details are in the attached terms of reference. TERMS OF REFERENCE>>
by FIDACall for Consultancy Applications
FIDA Nigeria invites applications for a consultancy to develop a training manual on land use and rights for training the Association of Small Scale Women Farmers Organisation in Nigeria (SWOFON) in implementation of our Action Aid-funded Women, Voice and Leadership project.
Applications are due on 29 January, 2020 and should be submitted to fidanigeria@yahoo.com. Other details are in the attached terms of reference. TERMS OF REFERENCE>>
by FIDAFIDA NIGERIA COMMENCES THE IMPLEMENTATION OF THE WOMEN’S VOICE AND LEADERSHIP NIGERIA PROJECT
As part of efforts to promote and protect the rights of Women and Girls in Nigeria, FIDA Nigeria, with funding from @ActionAidNigeria through the Women’s Voice and Leadership Nigeria Project, announces the commencement of a 5-year Project in the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja with focus on capacity building of networks, groups, associations and movements of women’s organization to create cultural, political and legislative change with a view to achieving increased effectiveness of sub-national, national and platform, networks and alliances to affect policy, legal and social change in Nigeria. This project is fully supported by Global Affairs Canada.@CanHCNigeria
by FIDACondemning the non-confirmation of the current Acting Chief Judge of Gombe State as Chief Judge
FIDA Nigeria unites with other groups and strongly condemn the non-confirmation of the Acting Chief Judge of Gombe State, the Hon. Justice Beatrice Lazarus Iliya, as the Chief Judge of Gombe State, having completed her statutory three months period as Acting Chief Judge.
Hon. Justice Beatrice Lazarus Iliya, a noble lady is not due for retirement for another three years minimum period; and has served diligently.
We therefore strongly object to the planned swearing in of a junior male judge as Chief Judge in her place for whatever reason.
FIDA Nigeria views the act of swearing in a male judge who is junior to other female judges as the substantive Chief Judge as act of gender discrimination!!
This is more painful as the UN 16 days activism against Gender Based Violence and Human Rights Violations is ongoing.
We therefore call on His Excellency, the Governor of Gombe State to do the right thing in compliance with the Law by swearing in the most senior Judge who has been effectively acting. This is the only action that can prove that His Excellency is not gender biased and upholds justice.
FIDA Nigeria stands against all forms of discrimination and injustice.
Rhoda Prevail Tyoden
Country Vice President/National President
Eliana Martins
National Publicity Secretary
by FIDA16 Days of Activism 2019
FIDA Nigeria 2019 commemoration of the 16 Days Activism on the Elimination of all Forms of Gender Based Violence
We stand tall and strong today, the 25th of November 2019, the International Day of the Elimination of Violence Against Women as we kick off our 16 days of Activism against Gender Based Violence, carrying out advocacy on the Theme “Orange the World: Generation Equality Stands against Rape!”; And will be rounding up activities on the 10th of December 2019, which is commemorated as Human Rights Day.
This year’s theme focuses on Rape because of the high rate of rape cases reported all over affecting all categories and ages of women and Children . According to UNWomen, 35 percent of women worldwide have experienced physical and/or sexual violence in their lifetime while 11 percent of Nigerian women have experienced physical and/or sexual violence by an intimate partner in the last twelve months; therefore this theme is most relevant now.
We note the reported cases of Rape, defilement and violence not to mention the numerous incidents which go unreported for reasons such as the culture of silence, the stigmatization of survivors, the fear of intimidation and so forth.
FIDA Nigeria based on these overwhelming reports and data, has played a paramount and active role, and even hosted the Secretariat of the Legislative Advocacy Coalition on Violence against Women (LACVAW), all to ensure the enactment of the Violence Against Persons Prohibition (VAPP) Act (2015) which in better details codifies the law, protects the victim and punishes the offender.
FIDA strongly commends and celebrates the following states which have so far enacted the equivalent of the VAPP Act namely Lagos, Edo, Oyo, Anambra, Cross River, Ekiti, Kaduna, Enugu, Ebonyi, Adamawa and Benue states, while calling on the remaining States of the Federation to proceed with dispatch to Adopt and implement the VAPP Act (2015).
The Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Act, 2015, is a landmark legislation on the prohibition of all forms of violence against persons, especially the marginalized in Nigeria. It is a great improvement on the Criminal and Penal Codes operational in Southern and Northern Nigeria respectively. It covers various forms of violence such as emotional violence, psychological violence, verbal violence, physical violence, sexual violence and so forth.
The Act has expanded the definition of rape to include different types of penetration on any gender without consent (Section 1 of the VAPP Act). The infraction of Section 1(1) of the VAPP Act is punishable with life imprisonment, Though Section 1(2) gives the judge a discretion to impose sentences less than life imprisonment depending on the circumstances. Worthy of note is the fact that the Act also provides for compensation of victims of rape, this was evidently absent in the previous laws.
With FIDA’s unique composition of over 2,500 volunteer female lawyers in Nigeria, spread across 32 branches in Nigeria we are working at all levels towards the Elimination of Violence against Women(VAW) because we recognize the multifarious nature of gender-based violence.
Consequently, as part of our 16 days activism program we shall be carrying out different programs such as legal clinics, activism march,advocacy visits, rallies, media and schools out reaches, sensitization and mobilization programs, including capacity building programs for key stakeholders, community influencers, faith based organizations and other groups on the ills of VAW, the provisions and protections of the VAPP Act, while also advocating for its adoption to suit unique cultural and religious peculiarities or contexts. FIDA shall continue in strategic engagement and advocacy campaigns with other key influencers so as to effectively drive the process necessary for the adoption and effective implementation of the VAPP Law in all the States of the Federation.
FIDA Nigeria therefore calls on all stakeholders to also play an active part in the sensitization, prevention, protection and enforcement to ensure the Elimination of these ills in our society. As we kick off, we call on all good meaning individuals, stakeholders and groups to join us, as we look into, speak out and take practical, effective, and proactive steps to eliminate all forms of Gender Based Violence in the country.
All generations must stand together to fight this menace called ‘Rape’ and indeed all other forms of violence perpetuated on our women (our mothers, wives, daughters, sisters, cousins, nieces, wards, grandchildren etc.) whether young or old.
We advocate that:
– The Federal government put in place necessary and appropriate mechanisms, facilities and processes to ensure safe spaces for victims and survivors of Gender Based Violence, particularly victims of rape
– Quick proactive steps must be taken in the reform of our criminal justice system to ensure speedy investigation and prosecution of offenders.
– The different States of the Federation must fast track processes to adopt and implement the Administration of Criminal Justice Act (ACJA) (2015) to ensure speedy dispensation of criminal trials.
FIDA calls on all to realize, appreciate and celebrate the role of the female gender in our society.
Rape is rooted in a complex set of patriarchal beliefs, power and control, This must stop.
Let us work together to instill confidence in the administration of criminal justice, work to remove the stigma attached to survivors, protect victims, while stopping the impunity of perpetuators and ensuring they are brought to justice.
FIDA Nigeria will continue to provide free legal representation and advice to survivors of Rape. FIDA Nigeria pledges to also provide legal representation for non- survivors of violence. It is absolutely necessary that the dignity of every human person especially that of the woman is respected. Accordingly all generations must rise up, speak out and do the needful to stop all forms of violence against women
FIDA stands to promote, protect and preserve the rights of women and girls in society. FIDA says women who are victims of rape demand:
#AcceptanceNotRejection
#SupportNotOpposition
#EncouragementNotDiscouragement
#RespectNotRape
#VenerationNotViolation
#StopAllFormsOfViolenceAgainstWomen
#NoMeansNo
#OrangetheWorldStopGenderBasedViolence
#GenerationEqualityStandsAgainstRape
Rhoda Prevail Tyoden
Country Vice President/National President
Eliana Martins
National Publicity Secretary
by FIDACondemning The Outburst By Timipriye Silva concerning Hon Justice Ekwo
The International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA) Nigeria unites with other Ministers in the Temple of Justice in condemning in totality the recent outburst aired on Channels TV by MR TIMIPRIYE SILVA concerning Hon Justice Ekwo, a sitting Federal High Court Judge of the Yenagoa Division; words of which are unprintable and certainly not worthy of being repeated here.
We commend the NBA for their quick response in condemning this outburst and align ourselves with their statement. The outburst of Mr. Silva is totally unwarranted, absolutely rude and disrespectful, an irresponsible statement which casts aspersions on the person of the Hon Justice Ekwo and it must in no way be condoned.
FIDA Nigeria therefore calls on all Ministers in the Temple of Justice to rise up and protect the sanctity of our profession. The Judiciary and her officers cannot be intimidated in anyway, they are Honorable and independent; where one feels a judge has erred in his judgment, there are well laid out processes and procedures to follow rather than resorting to cheap blackmail tactics of insults and public ridicule.
FIDA Nigeria rise in support of the NBA’s call on the Attorney General and Minister of Justice, the Honorable Chief Justice of Nigeria and indeed the National Judicial Council, to with the utmost dispatch proceed against Mr. Timipriye Silva, to forthwith retract and make good the ills he has committed by his recent outburst against His Lordship, Hon Justice Ekwo, who was acting in the due exercise of his judicial function. Such a retraction of the abusive words and clear apology must be similarly aired on the same national television.
The outburst by Mr. Sliva, a serving Minister of the Federal Republic of Nigeria has shown his pedigree and has certainly embarrassed his office, not to mention the entire country. He has shown bad sportsmanship, he cannot be allowed to tarnish the image and integrity of a judge.
Rhoda Prevail Tyoden
Country Vice President/National President
Eliana Martins
National Publicity Secretary
by FIDAFIDA NIGERIA APPLAUDS THE GOVERNOR OF KWARA STATE
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The International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA) Nigeria, applauds the Kwara State Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq as nine women made the shortlist of commissioners in the State.
According to the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor Mr. Rafiu Ajakaye, with the nine women on the list, female gender representation in the cabinet would be 56. 25 per cent, while that for men would be 43. 75 per cent, a position worthy of commendation and emulation.
FIDA Nigeria desires greater acceleration to the process on gender parity. Therefore we see this move as a great step in the right direction being that we all have a role to play in creating this balance in the different structures and institutions in society; this parity is paramount so society can function at its optimum, such that it would be beneficial to all across board.
FIDA Nigeria accordingly congratulates the Kwara State women nominees namely – Hajia Sadatu Modibbo Kawu (Ilorin South), Mrs. Johanna Kolo, (Edu Local Government), Hajia Arinola Fatimah Lawal, (Ilorin East), Hajia Aishat Ahman Patigi, (Patigi Local Government Area), Afolabi-Oshatimehin Adenike Harriet (Ifelodun); Ahmad Fatima Bisola (Ilorin West); Aremu Bose Deborah (Irepodun); Oyedun Juliana Funke (Isin); and Oyeyemi Olasumbo Florence (Oke Ero) for this great fete; whilst encouraging them to showcase their sterling qualities for the greater benefit of society.
FIDA in promoting and advocating for the protection and preservation of the rights of women and children, strongly commends the Governor of Kwara State for the act of prioritizing gender interest in his government by having more women shortlisted for membership of his cabinet.
This act is exemplary and goes to speak of His Excellency’s interest in gender equality which ripple effect encourages the empowerment of women in leadership and other positions.
We also call on other states and indeed the Federal Government to emulate this act to ensure that women are more actively involved in governance in Nigeria.
The International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA) Nigeria proudly adds her voice to celebrate women’s contributions to all levels of National development as we continue to state that:
‘A balanced world is a better world;
A balanced world will not bring down men; and
Gender balance is progressive!!!
FIDA on all to be great watchmen such that where there are lapses or any absence of balance, we speak out and take progressive steps to balance it out.
We must all continue to Think Equal, Build Smart, and Innovate for Change as we collectively strive for equality in our society.
#BalanceForBetter
#BalanceForProgress!!!
Rhoda Prevail Tyoden
Country Vice President/National President
FIDA Nigeria
Eliana Martins
National Publicity Secretary
FIDA Nigeria
by FIDAPOLICE ASSURES FIDA OF SUPPORT
On the 16th of October 2019, in Furtherance of FIDA Nigeria’s mission of Protecting the Rights of Women and Children, Fidans engaged on an Advocacy Walk to the Nigeria Police Headquarters, Abuja and visited the Inspector General of the Nigerian Police. Members were warmly received by the AIG Alkali, the PRO Frank Mba and other high ranking Police Officials
FIDA Nigeria advocated for the police to rise up to their statutory responsibilities and do a lot more to Stop All Forms of Violence Against Women and Children; they sensitized the Police on recently passed legislations such as the (VAPP) Act (2015) which can be used by them in prosecution; FIDA agreed to support the Police in training it’s officers particularly those on the Gender Desks at Police Stations, including other proactive collaborations for the benefit of the vulnerable groups. The positive role FIDA plays in the society was appreciated and commended, the police force gladly welcomed any help that may be received from FIDA in the future
