By Hosea Parah, Abuja

The Kaduna State Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, James Kanyip, has pledged to deepen collaboration with Women Community in Africa (WCA) to strengthen the prosecution of gender-based violence (GBV) cases and expand community sensitization initiatives across the state.

The commitment followed an advocacy visit on Thursday by the State Coordinator of WCA, Miss Comfort Ojo, who led a team of stakeholders to the Ministry of Justice to seek stronger institutional partnership.

Ojo explained that WCA is committed to ending abuse through community engagement and collaboration with key stakeholders. She noted that the organization also works to support legislation that protects women and children while inspiring and empowering vulnerable groups across the State.

Highlighting persistent challenges, she stressed the need for increased grassroots sensitization, particularly in communities where domestic violence often goes partially reported or prosecuted.
“The importance of community engagement cannot be overemphasized,” she said. “Many victims and communities are still reluctant to report crimes. Collaboration with the ministry is essential for sustainability and proper mentorship to achieve our goals.”

Ojo requested support for town hall meetings and advocacy campaigns to educate communities on laws guiding the prosecution of GBV offenders.

Responding, the Attorney-General expressed delight at the growing collective effort by women-led groups to confront GBV. He emphasized that the scourge extends beyond visible physical abuse.
“Most victims have been used for trafficking, prostitution, and have suffered various forms of domestic violations, including forced labour,” he said. “Gender-based violence goes beyond the physical; it includes emotional torture and other forms of abuse.”

Kanyip urged WCA to complement its advocacy with practical action, including reporting cases directly to the prosecution council.
“Be more proactive in the fight against GBV. With this collaboration and your community engagement, we can tackle it. We are ready anytime you call on us,” he assured.

Also speaking, Sim Garba, State Counsel and Assistant Director in the Department of Public Prosecution, described the visit as timely. She said the ministry remains committed to ensuring justice is accessible to all, especially vulnerable persons at the grassroots.

“We are here for the cause of justice. Advocacy in communities must be deepened so people understand that the law prosecutes offenders—whether the victim is a child, an adult, or anyone. When you see something, please say something,” Garba added.

The partnership is expected to bolster ongoing efforts to curb GBV and strengthen justice delivery for survivors across Kaduna State.