By Victoria Ogunrinde, Abuja
The Minister of Transportation, Rt. Hon. Rotimi Ameachi on Friday called for improved enlightenment of the public on sexual and gender based violence to curb spread.
Ameachi who was represented by his Aide Dr. Israel Ibeleme while speaking in Abuja at the 2020 Nigeria Meritorious Service Award organized by West African freelance journalist noted that there is need for the government and the society at large to pay more attention to Public Enlightenment and stand for persons who are victims of rape in order to put the mental state of the victims in check.
“Every agency taking charge against rape should make everyone realise that it is not the agency’s work, alone but the work of everyone, in the society.
“Public enlightenment has shown to be a critical tool in changing behaviour, attitude, beliefs and value system of people. Therefore, there should be intense public enlightenment and education at schools, social clubs, cultural group gatherings, churches, mosques and through the media, to first of all, demystify the myths about sexual assault.”
Representing the Minister, His media aide, Dr. Israel Ibeleme who used rape as a case study highligted the dangers of rape in the society for both genders (Male and Female) however urged for proper supporting of victims or survivors to lessen harms by providing victim-centered services, treatment for victims of rape and treatment for at-risk children and families to prevent problem behaviour including sex provoking acts.
Furthermore, Hon. Ameachi Implored anyone who is a victim of rape not to be afraid in speaking out .
“Some fear to speak out even if they know, because they fear that they will be called dirty, but this shouldn’t be the case as every rape victim deserves justice and this can only be attained when they speak out”, he said.
The Minister was however honoured with the West African Transport Personality of the year award by the federation of west African Journalists.
