From Scholastica Onyeka, Makurdi
A legal practitioner and human rights advocate, based in Makurdi, Barr. Joseph Gbagyo, has urged the government and people of goodwill to support more women representation in the social, political and economic permutations in Benue state.
Gbagyo who is the Secretary of Nigerian Bar Association, (NBA), Makurdi branch, made this case while briefing newsmen in Makurdi on Thursday.
Barr. Gbagyo thanked Governor Samuel Ortom for his service to the people of Benue state especially his involvement of women in key position in his government just as he congratulated the Governor elect, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia and tasked him to ensure adequate women inclusion in his administration.
Gbagyo frowned at a situation where only four women have been elected into the national and state assemblies from Benue State saying
“I like to plead with the incoming administration to consider adequate women inclusion for gender sensitivity as is the thinking of the modern world.
“Let me also call on both men and women to support the few women in active leadership roles across the country. It is quite a step in the right direction for those who are already doing this, however we can do better.
Also speaking on the rise in cases of human right violations in the state, Gbagyo said “There has been a rise in human right abuses and violations especially of women. This should be condemned headlong by all of us, irrespective of social, political or economic background.”
He lamented the cruel treatment metres out on women saying they have been made vulnerable members of the society.
He said “Violations have led to the death of many victims within and around us. It is dehumanising as it is barbaric and must be checked for a better society.
“Some have died in the course of this inhuman treatment. The question is how much longer do we wait before we change our society from these negativity? As I address you, someone is struggling with physical, emotional or psychological pains.”
He also appreciated the media for standing up to its bits, and encouraged them to keep up the good work saying society looks up to the media to do more, especially in the area of investigation of cases of violence against women among others.
Gbagyo finally commiserated with the families of recent armed herders attacks in the state and called on the security agencies to do more in protecting lives and properties.