By Noah Ocheni, Lokoja
The wife of Kogi State Governor, Hajia Sefinat Usman Ododo, has called on youths and residents to promote responsible use of digital platforms and combat gender-based violence. The appeal was made on Monday during a sensitization programme at Government House, Lokoja, marking the 2025 International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women and Girls and the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence. Hajia Ododo emphasized that the campaign aims to tackle both physical and digital forms of abuse targeting women and girls. “Violence—whether physical, emotional, or online—destroys families. Citizens must reject all forms of abuse while prioritizing the safety and wellbeing of their families,” she said.
Highlighting the theme of this year’s campaign, she noted the growing threat of digital violence and urged citizens to use Information and Communication Technology responsibly. She called on parents, particularly mothers, to monitor their children’s online and offline activities closely.The First Lady further stressed the Kogi State Government’s commitment to safeguarding women and children by ensuring equal access to education, supporting girls’ and women’s participation in policy-making, and strengthening empowerment initiatives. She also encouraged women and girls to break the silence, report digital abuse, and use online platforms wisely.
Reinforcing the call, the Secretary to the Kogi State Government, Mrs. Folashade Arike Ayoade (PhD), and the Commissioner for Women Affairs, Hon. Acharu Okpanachi, affirmed the government’s unified stance against violence targeting women and girls. Several speakers also emphasized the importance of gathering evidence, such as screenshots, to strengthen legal action against perpetrators.The programme included a morning road walk led by Hajia Ododo and other dignitaries, mobilizing women and girls across Lokoja to raise awareness about stopping violence in homes and communities across Kogi State and Nigeria.Through these initiatives, the Kogi State Government continues to promote a culture of accountability, safety, and digital responsibility, reinforcing the need for collective action in protecting women and girls.
