Naomi Gabriel —
A group sponsored by the Nigerian Feminist Forum (NFF) has demanded compensation from the state government for the continued demolition of homes, malls and shops without due process and compensation, after collecting levies, taxes and instituting mandatory payments.
The group said that conflicting government policies had left many people homeless and without a stable source of livelihood, even as some have turned to crime and criminality.
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NFF focal person Ms Chinonso Okechukwu stated this Monday in a statement made available to Newslodge in Owerri, the capital of Imo state, shortly after a one-day town hall meeting with stakeholders. of the area and the ministry of gender and vulnerable groups.
The women’s group also gave insight into the dangers of increasing insecurity and extrajudicial killings in the state and advocated for sustained efforts to curb the trend.
A copy of the statement, which was obtained by our correspondent, said in part: “This has also led to the displacement of people such as commercial tricycle operators, food vendors, small business owners, among others, and an increase in violence against women and girls (VAWG), drug abuse, cultism and insecurity. “
“The NFF believes that leaving women out of peace and security processes has prevented communities from finding lasting peace. In times of conflict, the vulnerabilities and unique needs of women are often forgotten during negotiations, limiting the effectiveness of peace and security agreements and humanitarian responses in the eventuality. “
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The group noted that the state of Imo and the southeast have come under heavy attack and insurgency since the outbreak of COVID-19 and the invasion of the Owerri correctional center.
He also expressed the need for the signing of the VAPP bill to protect people and provide a legal instrument for the prosecution of violations of the peace. Human rights violations, teenage pregnancy, rape, gender-based violence, are high during periods of conflict.
“When women are part of the peace process, they know and include the real victims of violence, conflict and insecurity in the compensation process. The statement stated.
Speaking previously, Blessing Azubuike, Gender Director of the Ministry of Women’s Affairs and Vulnerable Groups, advocated for the participation of women in peace and security processes, and measures that can create spaces for women in the construction of the peace.
He said that all countries are expected to develop a national action plan for the implementation of UNSCR 1325, while states are required to further develop a State Action Plan (SAP) aimed at localizing UNSCR 1325.
Recall that Newslodge had previously reported that hundreds of artisans and merchants in Perry Nwanguma, Round 40-40 Junction, Control I, and new Owerri, the capital of Imo State, watched helplessly as Owerri Capital Improvement Authority officers (OCDA) demolished many retailers and business centers within the space.
Merchants and various artisans working within the space accounted for their losses shortly after bulldozers turned their items and shops into rubble around 8 a.m. yesterday.
