The EKiti state Commissioner for Women affairs, Mrs Peju Babafemi, has expressed confidence in the management of the Sexual Assault Referral Centre to handle cases related to gender-based violence in the state.
Mrs Babafemi Who played host to the center’s management team in her office in Ado, commended the center for delivering on its mandate despite iys numerous challenges.
The Commissioner who said that the state government is committed and dedicated to eliminatimg gender based violence in the state, stressed the need for cooperation among the relevant stakeholders , including the Ministry of Health, Ministry of Justice, and Nigeria Police force, to effectively combat GBV in the state.
She said “SARC is an organization we must pay attention to, we will do our best in making it better“
Mrs. Babafemi stated that the challenges facing the Centre as highlighted by the management will be thoroughly examined for appropriate consideration adding that the state government, through the of the firstlady is taking steps to establish the state’s GBV committee.
The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Women Affairs, Mrs. Omotayo Olatilu also commended the team for their actibities and efforts in addressing gender-based violence (GBV) in the state.
The Coordinator of the state’s Sexual Assault Referral Centre, Mrs. Rita Illvebare, said that the centre known as Moremi Clinic was the 16th referral centre in the country, which serves the important purpose of addressing gender-based violence (GBV).
Mrs. Illvebare emphasized the state government’s commitment to effectively tackling GBV through the establishment of the Clinic.
According to her
“the centre has achieved a great deal since its inception, having provided medical attention to over 300 victims, as well as legal services to 370 victims“
She pleaded with the ministry to help in tackling some of the challenges facing the Centre, as she pledged support on key areas where the ministry may need their expertise.
The meeting was attended by top management staff from both the Ministry of Women Affairs and the Sexual Assault Referral Centre.