Stakeholders in Bayelsa have called for stronger partnerships, increased funding and sustained action to combat gender-based violence and create a safer society for survivors.
They made the call at a fundraising cocktail for the Hall of Fame Project, organised by Do-Foundation, Closer TV and partners in Yenagoa.
The event was organised to raise funds for supporting survivors of gender-based violence and strengthening interventions against the rising cases in the state.
In her welcome address, Founder of Do-Foundation, Dr. Dise Goddy-Harry, said the gathering was more than a celebration.
She said it was an opportunity to raise critical funds and strengthen interventions for women, girls and other survivors of gender-based violence.
Goddy-Harry said survivors often require urgent medical attention, legal assistance, counselling, protection and safe accommodation to recover from the effects of abuse.
She urged guests to look beyond the glamour of the event and focus on the human stories and urgent needs behind the campaign.
According to her, tackling gender-based violence requires collective action by government, civil society organisations, professionals, law-enforcement agencies, philanthropists, activists and the public.
Declaring the event open, Prof. Felix Omemu called for greater support for the fundraising initiative, describing it as an important contribution to humanity.
Omemu described gender-based violence as a serious societal issue and stressed the importance of strong leadership in ensuring the success of interventions.
He commended the Do-Foundation for its efforts, saying the initiative would contribute to building a safer and better future for society.
Similarly, President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo in Bayelsa, Dr. Frank Odunukwe, commended the organisers for sustaining the initiative.
Odunukwe said the project had gained recognition beyond Bayelsa, with its visibility extending to Bayelsans and their friends living abroad.
Other speakers also stressed the need to support survivors and ensure that no victim was abandoned or denied access to justice and protection.
They included Permanent Secretary, State Pensions Board, Mr. Alex Ogregade; NDU lecturer, Prof. Stanley Udisi; NUJ State Vice Chairman, Dr. Enebrato Preye.
Also speaking were girl-child advocate, Gloria Wodu; NTA Yenagoa General Manager, Mrs. Mary Ekanem; and Collins Cocodia Foundation’s Public Relations Officer, Mr. Bilyaminu Muhammadu.
Others were Mr. Brakes Ohaka, SAN, and Miss Ebimopa Tam-Kwokwo, Esq., of the Gender Unit, Bayelsa Ministry of Justice.
The stakeholders renewed calls for commitment to ensuring that survivors do not suffer in silence or remain without access to justice and protection.
They urged individuals and organisations to support initiatives providing medical, legal, psychological and protective services to survivors of gender-based violence.