Women lawyers in Bayelsa State, under the aegis of the International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA) have demanded stricter observance of law against sexual abuse and domestic violence.
The Chairperson of FIDA, Yenagoa branch, Dise Sheila who made the call on behalf of other lawyers also noted that even though there are laws in the country to protect the rights and well-being of women and children from all forms of violence and abuse, many of the affected persons are not aware of their rights or do not have the resources to pursue it.
In a statement made available to Daily Trust in Lagos, the group noted that it met few days ago with the Moses Oruaze Dickson Esq, the Managing Solicitor of TRIAX Solicitors, who also doubles as the founder, Goldcoast Developmental Foundation, for possible partnership and legal support in tackling the menace of sexual molestation of children especially the girl-child in the Niger Delta.
“The few who have the understanding of these rights are scared of stigmatization and threats from the perpetrators and the society in general. It is for this reason that we seek partnership with a law firm with a track record for fighting for the vulnerable especially women and children,” Sheila was quoted in the statement.
Responding, Dickson expressed deep concern on the increasing cases of abuse against the female child and how the culture of silence is encouraging more perpetrators.
“It is even sad when the victims are from impoverished homes and cannot afford the legal fees to fight their assaulters. We will do everything within our capacity to provide legal assistance to these victims,” he said.
Dickson also noted that the Goldcoast Developmental Foundation will serve as a mediator in championing the project by working with the police to speed up investigation, having sustainable partnership with certified hospitals to speed up medical examinations of victims and survivors of such violence in addition to prevailing on the state Chief Judge to set up a system that will speed up trials of such cases.
“We will also work with FIDA through our law firm to provide pro bono legal services for victims of sex assault,” he stated.
