Special Adviser on Gender to Ondo State Governor, Mrs. Olamide Falana, has emphasised that Gender-Based Violence (GBV) cannot be eradicated with mere words, but requires a commitment supported by adequate funding.

According to Falana, Ondo State is one of the leading states in addressing GBV, with the passage of the Violence Against Persons Prohibition (VAPP) Law in 2021 and establishment of Ondo State Agency Against Gender-Based Violence (OSAA-GBV).

The governor’s aide said this, yesterday, at a programme organised by Westminster Foundation for Democracy (WFD) with the theme, “Enhancement of the capacity of state institutions for effective implementation of laws to promote inclusion, gender equality, and reverse GBV.”

Falana, while commending the First Lady of the state, Mrs. Betsy Anyanwu-Akeredolu, for her leadership against GBV, said her effort had resulted in significant success in raising awareness about GBV and supporting survivors.

She, however, emphasised that sustained commitment and funding are necessary for the VAPP law’s effective implementation and OSAA-GBV’s activities.

Earlier, Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Charles Titiloye, commended the WFD for its support in raising awareness and implementing the law in the state.

Titiloye said child’s rights and VAPP laws had brought to a minimum the cases of violence against children and women, and the state was gradually being freed of sexual offenses, unlike in the past.

Also, the Country Director of WFD, Adebowale Olorunmola, said the programme had achieved a lot over the eight months since it started.

Olorunmola emphasised the need for gender budgeting by lobbying state assemblies to release funds at different stages for the VAPP Law.

Similarly, Senior Special Assistant to the First Lady, Mrs. Temitope Daniya, appreciated WFD for the effort and struggle in the passage of the law.