The House of Representatives has called for the adoption of the Violence Against Persons Prohibition Act (VAPP), 2015 across the thirty-six (36) State of the Federation. Moving the motion at the plenary session of Tuesday, December 6 2016, Hon. Abubakar Yunusa Ahmad (APC:Gombe) explained that since the Act was currently only applicable to the Federal Capital Territory, there is no legislation protecting girls from violence in public and private spheres in other States.

Hon. Ahmad also expressed dismay with the daily incidents of Gender Based Violence (GBV) and reports of increased sexual violence tied to the insurgency in the North East and the several allegations of sexual violence perpetrated by State and Non-state actors in various parts of the country. In furtherance to the concerns raised, he also suggested a nationwide rally of sixteen (16) days as a mark of support against GBV and to raise awareness on all forms of violence against women.

In line with Hon. Ahmad’s motion, the House also resolved to urge the 36 State Houses of Assembly to adopt the Act as a symbolism of the Legislature’s commitment to protect all vulnerable persons -with particular regard to women and girls. The House further mandated its Committees on Human Rights, Women Affairs, Justice, Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) and Refugees, to investigate reports of alleged sexual assaults in IDP Camps .