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In a bid to advance Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo’s vision for a violence-free society, the Kogi State Public Defender and Citizens' Rights Commission (PDCRC) on Monday embarked on a strategic advocacy visit to Army Day Secondary School, Lokoja.

The outreach focused on enlightening students and staff on the importance of human rights, the Commission’s mandates, and the provisions of the Violence Against Persons Prohibition (VAPP) Law.

Speaking during the visit, the Director General of PDCRC, Hon. Idris Esq., said the Commission is committed to offering legal assistance to vulnerable and indigent citizens in the state. “We currently have twelve lawyers from the Ministry of Justice working with the Commission to handle such cases,” he said.

Idris also noted that the Commission handles matters under the Child’s Right Law, the VAPP Law, and promotes access to justice through Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) mechanisms.

The Head of the ADR Unit, Hibat Umar Esq., walked the students through key aspects of the VAPP Law. She identified serious offenses under the law such as rape, coercion, inflicting bodily harm, forceful eviction from home, isolation from loved ones, and harmful traditional practices, including female genital mutilation. “Under the VAPP Law, female genital mutilation attracts a fine of ₦500,000 or seven years imprisonment,” she cautioned.

Emmanuel Ibenu Esq., Deputy Director of Criminal Litigation, emphasized the protective mechanisms provided by the law. “The VAPP Law prohibits violence whether it occurs in private or public spaces,” he explained. “Protection orders are available under the law, and we have two officers designated to handle such matters. Spousal battery should be reported, regardless of whether the victim is male or female.”

On his part, Senior Legal Officer and Legal Assistant to the DG, Ameh Friday Esq., stressed the power of information. He provided contact details for reporting abuses, including the Commission’s office located in Rooms 13 and 14, Zone 8, State Secretariat-New Complex Lokoja, and a helpline: 09164890877.

The school principal, Mrs. Victor, expressed deep appreciation to the PDCRC team for the sensitization session. She assured the Commission of the school’s readiness to collaborate in protecting the rights of students and staff.

The visit concluded with the DG presenting copies of the VAPP Law to the school, underscoring the Commission’s commitment to grassroots legal awareness and the promotion of justice in Kogi State.

The advocacy effort further reinforces the PDCRC’s dedication to fostering a culture of peace, human dignity, and accountability in line with the Ododo administration’s governance priorities.

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