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WIVES OF TRADITIONAL RULERS IN FCT JOIN FORCES TO FIGHT GENDER-BASED VIOLENCE AND EARLY MARRIAGE

In a bold move to end harmful cultural practices and champion the rights of women and girls, wives of traditional rulers in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) have taken the fight against gender-based violence and early marriage to the grassroots. The FCT Traditional Rulers’ Wives Association, in collaboration with the FCT Women Affairs Secretariat, led a robust advocacy campaign focused on gender justice, girl-child education, and women empowerment at a high-impact community outreach in Abaji Area Council.

President of the Traditional Rulers’ Wives Association, Hajia Hauwa Ibrahim Adamu, said the movement is rooted in the belief that “When we educate the woman, we empower the family. When we protect the girl child, we secure the future.” She emphasized that “Our women must not remain silent in the face of abuse. The time to rise is now.”

Representatives from all 17 chiefdoms, including Mrs. Gloria Ayedoo, wife of the Etsu of Kwali, echoed a united message: “Enough is enough.” The women emphasized dignity, safety, and justice as non-negotiable rights for every girl and woman.

Dr. Adedayo Benjamins-Laniyi, Mandate Secretary of the FCT Women Affairs Secretariat, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to scaling advocacy across all six Area Councils. She said the outreach is aligned with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Tinubu’s administration, adding that “Through the Renewed Hope Agenda, we are delivering structured interventions that include awareness, education, empowerment, and access to justice. No woman will be left behind.”

The traditional institution also pledged full support, with His Royal Majesty, Baba Yunusa Adamu, the Ona of Abaji, lauding the initiative and calling on other traditional leaders to take a stand against harmful practices. “As custodians of culture, our role is to protect, not to oppress. These women have our full support,” he said.

The event brought together a diverse coalition of stakeholders, including religious leaders, youth advocates, women leaders, persons with disabilities, and justice sector representatives, all united by a single purpose: to protect and empower women and girls in every corner of the FCT. This initiative is supported by the MacArthur Foundation through the Resource Center for Human Rights and Civic Education.

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