The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) has called for stronger speedy access to justice for survivors of Gender-Based Violence (GBV) in Bauchi State, stressing that the effectiveness of response lies in the unwavering commitment of key institutions to empower frontline service providers.
Speaking during a two-day training organised in collaboration with the Bauchi State Ministry of Justice, State Programme Officer for UNFPA, Deborah Tabara, said that survivors’ access to justice depends greatly on the capacity and dedication of ministries, law enforcement and the judiciary.
Ms. Tabara, who commended Bauchi for creating a standard that other states could replicate, also acknowledged the sacrifices of stakeholders who have continued to champion the cause of survivors.
“Bauchi stands out in terms of GBV response. The level of collaboration here is setting a benchmark for others,” she said.
LEADERSHIP reports that the training, which drew Police Investigative Officers (IPOs), prosecutors, judicial officers, and civil society actors from all 20 local government areas of the state, focused on strengthening response mechanisms and ensuring survivors’ rights are upheld.
Permanent secretary, Ministry of Justice, Yusuf Adamu, explained that the choice of participants was deliberate given their critical role in seeking justice for survivors and holding perpetrators accountable.
“GBV remains one of the most pressing human rights issues in our state,” Adamu said.
“While we have laws, policies, and institutional reforms, these measures are only as effective as the people enforcing them. This training offers an opportunity to sharpen skills, deepen collaboration, and strengthen the justice system for survivors,” he added.
He further emphasised that the fight against GBV requires not just laws on paper but consistent efforts from duty bearers to investigate cases, prosecute offenders, and secure justice for victims.
GBV Desk Officer, Bauchi Ministry of Justice, Maimuna Ibrahim, said the human impact of such cases remains deeply troubling. She recalled a recent report involving a young girl in Toro local government area whose stepmother burned her private parts with a hot metal spoon.
“Every GBV case is traumatising,” Ibrahim said, describing the incident as heartbreaking. She assured that the ministry is committed to ensuring justice for the minor and all other survivors across the state.
