July 10, (THEWILL) — Wife of the Bayelsa State Governor, Dr. Gloria Diri, has called for the arrest and prosecution of perpetrators of human trafficking and gender-based violence, regardless of their social status.
She made the call during a three-day Niger Delta summit themed “Raising Teenage Ambassadors Against Traffickers and Propagators of Domestic Violence” held in Yenagoa.
Dr. Diri urged both the Bayelsa State House of Assembly and the National Assembly to strengthen existing laws to more effectively tackle these abuses, which she described as serious threats to human dignity and security.
The summit was organised by the Association of Women Against Gender-Based Violence in collaboration with the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP).
It brought together stakeholders from across the Niger Delta to address the growing menace of human trafficking and domestic violence, especially as they affect teenagers, women, and children.
According to organisers, rising cases of trafficking and gender-based abuse have continued to expose young girls and children to forced labour, sexual exploitation, street hawking, and other forms of servitude.
Speaking at the event, the Pere of Kabowei Kingdom, His Royal Majesty King Peremobowei Erebulu, pledged the full support of traditional institutions in the fight against gender-based violence and human trafficking.
He commended the initiative and called for greater collaboration among communities, security agencies, and civil society groups.
The event also featured the launch of a Safe Space Centre, a facility designed to provide counselling, shelter, and support for victims of abuse.
Awards were also presented to notable Gender Rights Champions in recognition of their advocacy efforts.
President of the Association of Women Against Gender-Based Violence, Dr. Dise Ogbise-Goddy Harry, expressed satisfaction with the summit’s outcome, noting the strong commitments made by participants toward supporting the organisation’s vision.
“I am excited about the success of this summit. The feedback and pledges of support, especially toward building and sustaining safe spaces for victims, are truly encouraging. Together, we can end this scourge,” she said.
The summit concluded with a renewed call on government agencies, lawmakers, traditional leaders, and the public to take decisive action against gender-based violence and trafficking, and to empower young people to become advocates for change.
Amos Okioma is a Correspondent at THEWILL
