Chinedum Treasure
The International Federation of Women Lawyers, FIDA, Anambra State Chapter, has called for greater protection of victims of domestic violence, family disputes, inheritance-related abuses and discrimination against female children and widows.
Chairperson of FIDA, Anambra State Chapter, Barrister Amara Muojeke who made the call at the Film Academy, Headquarters, Awka said domestic violence should not be regarded as a problem perpetrated only by men.
She argued that women could also subject their husbands to physical and emotional abuse, stressing that domestic violence should be addressed without prejudice, the gender of the victim or perpetrator notwithstanding.
She cited a case involving a woman who allegedly became the breadwinner of her family and subjected the husband to maltreatment following challenges he encountered in his business.
On inheritance, FIDA boss expressed concern over cases where female children were allegedly denied their fathers’ property following their deaths simply because they were girls.
“Female children are equal members of their families and should not be discriminated against in matters of inheritance on the basis of gender,” she stressed.
Muojeke further drew attention to the plight of widows, who, she said, are sometimes subjected to discrimination and denied access to property belonging to their deceased husbands.
She urged the public to speak out against domestic violence, discrimination and other forms of abuse, warning that silence could allow such practices to persist.
Highlighting the Sexual and Gender-Based Violence, SGBV, Unit established by the state government under the Ministry of Justice to strengthen intervention and response to gender-based violence, Muojeke called for increased public awareness and intervention in cases of abuse.
She stressed the need for collective action to protect vulnerable members of society.
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