The Bayelsa State chapter of International Federation Lawyers (FIDA), and National Democratic Institute (NDI), on Thursday launched a campaign to stop violence against women in elections.

FIDA’s State Chairperson Mrs Dise Ogbise-Erhisere, said during the Launch of Stop-Violence Against Women in Election (Stop-VAWIE) that women were at the receiving end of violence in politics.

She said that inclusion of women in decision making would engender more development in the country’s electoral processes.

Ogbise-Erhisere said that the launch became necessary in Bayelsa, especially now the state is preparing for the governorship election.

She said that the women lawyers have been at fore-front in ensuring that all violence against women and children were reduced before, during and after elections.

“We, the lawyers are committed to promoting and protecting the right, interest and well-being of women and children in Nigeria, especially Bayelsa.

“We are doing this because; we want a just, peaceful and equitable Nigerian society, where women and children’s right and interest are protected.

“Bayelsa FIDA is excited about launching of this project (Stop-VAWIE) with NDI and other collaborating agencies; women’s right must be protected in the society.”

Mrs Ene Ede, Gender Advisor, Electoral Empowerment of Civil Society Project (EECSP) in Bayelsa, said the launch was necessary in ensuring that violence against women was reduced in the society.

Ede, who represented the NDI Country Director, Jasper Veen urged women to always stand to defend their rights, especially before, during and after elections.

“Here in Bayelsa, the election is around the corner, this is the time for us to do something about violence against women.”

Bayelsa Chief Judge, Justice Kate Abiri, who was represented by Justice Doris Azokeme, commended the launching of the project in the state, stressing that verbal violence against women should also stop.

“Using abusive languages against women, like calling them prostitute is also part of the violence; we must do away with all sorts of violence in the society, including political violence.”

•Photo shows Gov Dickson.

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