Katsina Adopts New Measures To Curb Sexual, Gender–Based Violence

The Katsina State Government has announced new proactive measures aimed at punishing sexual offenders and strengthening protections for children as part of its renewed campaign against Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV).

The secretary to the state government, Abdullahi Faskari, made this known on Tuesday during a one-day stakeholders’ engagement organised by the Department of Girl Child and Child Development in Katsina.

Faskari, who was represented by the commissioner for Information, Bala Zango, reaffirmed the government’s “zero tolerance” stance on all forms of gender violence.

He called on prosecuting agencies to pursue GBV cases diligently to ensure justice for survivors, noting that the state had established a special court under the State High Court dedicated solely to handling GBV cases.

“The court is expected to fast-track hearings, reduce backlogs, and guarantee timely justice for survivors,” he said.

Faskari added that the sensitisation was aimed at raising awareness on protecting both male and female children.

He noted that Katsina had domesticated the Violence Against Persons Prohibition (VAPP) Act, giving the state a stronger legal foundation to prosecute offenders and protect survivors.

He also highlighted the creation of a Sexual Assault Referral Centre (SARC), which provides medical care, counselling, and legal support to victims of sexual assault.

Faskari urged residents to report suspicious cases, saying:“Silence only empowers perpetrators, while timely reporting ensures justice and protection.”

The special adviser to Governor Dikko Radda on Girl Child Education, Jamila Abdu-Mani, described the engagement as timely, especially with the rising cases of GBV in the state.

Represented by Aminu Badaru-Jikamshi, she stressed the need for stronger awareness campaigns and improved case management.

“We must continue to emphasise girl child education as a powerful tool for empowerment, protection, and societal development,” she said.

Earlier, the first lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, expressed concern over the rise of both offline and online violence targeting women and girls.

She warned about the increasing threat of digital abuse, harassment, extortion, and exploitation.