IDGC: NAWOJ, USAID BA-N seek better deal for girl child, demand enforcement of VAPP Law in Akwa Ibom

By Adeleye Kunle

As the world celebrates the international day of the girl child today, the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists, NAWOJ, Akwa Ibom State council as well as Breakthrough Action Nigeria, a USAID-funded project in the state have sought for a better deal for the girl children and the implementation of the Violence Against Persons Prohibition Act, VAPP, in the state.

In a statement signed by NAWOJ Chairperson and the Secretary, Nsikak Okon and Patience John, respectively and issued to journalists in Uyo on Tuesday, the association urged the government to ensure that persons found guilty of injustice against a girl child faced the full weight of the law.

Speaking on the theme of this year’s celebration, ‘Our Time is Now, Our Rights, Our Future’ the women journalists said it was a call for the girl child to be free from all forms of biases and her rights restored.

The association also urged churches, communities, Government, groups and organizations to preach against rape, teenage pregnancy, child marriage, female genital mutilation, child slavery and other harmful practices against the girl child.

The union, therefore, celebrated some women such as the governor’s wife, Dr Martha Emmanuel, Imaobong Nse Uko, a World record holder in the Junior category of the 400 metres, Aniekeme Alphonsus and others from the state who have distinguished themselves in their endeavors