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By Patrick Oliseh
The government of Osun State on Wednesday launched a comprehensive framework to prevent and address cases of technology-enabled sexual and gender-based violence as Erelu Ngozi Abeni Adeleke, the wife of the governor of the state, took on a leadership role for organizing and hosting efforts. It represents an air of seriousness about responding effectively to threats posed by digital technologies against women, children, and vulnerable groups.
Ngozi Adeleke, a Nigerian diplomat who has been recognized for her efforts within campaigns and legislations that have created benefits for women, youths, and children within Osun, has been mentioned as part of the larger efforts that accompany the policy framework. As well, she has been recognized as an advocate for legislation that can reduce HIV-related stigma, which can be seen as a larger priority within her efforts and agendas related to health and inclusion within governments. As a result of her foundation efforts, there have been critical benefits within society that have included health care, education, poverty alleviation, and gender equity.
The president and her cabinet were described as embracing a new paradigm that reflects Osun’s dynamic response to online threats that are increasingly influencing abuse, intimidation, and exploitation on online platforms. A technical working group was launched at the event, tasked with ensuring that the impact of the policy affects government agencies and civil society parties.
Speaking at the event, Erelu Ngozi Adeleke pointed out that digital growth has created new and intricate ways for abuse to happen, requiring immediate and deliberate response. According to Erelu Ngozi Adeleke, the fact that women and vulnerable people are victims of abuse and exploitation on some digital platforms shows that these platforms have created new ways and avenues for abuse. Erelu Ngozi Adeleke commended the Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency for understanding the importance of tackling technologically facilitated abuse as a serious issue.
As for her experience unveiling the policy, it was consistent with activities surrounding the global 16 Days of Activism, wherein she visited facilities that directly aided victims. Mrs. Adeleke rallied people and various facilities working together as government agencies, tech firms, and non-governmental organizations as well as individuals against abuse facilitated by technology. According to her, guidelines on survival within the policy framework would enable law enforcement and online platforms to offer remedies. Now that the TWG is set up, it’s all about encouraging the implementation of the policy. According to Adeleke, it’s high time and imperative that the group shows its passion and professionalism as it works towards turning words into actions. As a mother in Osun, she restates her commitment to initiatives that will eliminate SGBV in every form and build a society for victims who will have access to justice without fear, a society in which jurisdictions will be empowered and responsible technologies will be harnessed.
