The Nigerian Senate on Tuesday, passed Violence
against Persons (Prohibition) Bill which seeks to
prohibit female circumcision or genital mutilation,
forceful ejection from home and harmful widowhood
practices. The bill also prohibits abandonment of
spouse, children and other dependents without
sustenance, battery and harmful traditional practices.
The Bill was sponsored by the Leader of the Senate,
Victor Ndoma-Egba. It is also intended to eliminate
violence in private and public life and provide maximum
protection and effective remedies for victims of violence,
and punishment of offenders.
The bill equally prohibits economic abuse, forced
isolation and separation from family and friends,
substance attack, depriving persons of their liberty,
incest, indecent exposure, among others.
In his remarks, Deputy President of the Senate, Ike
Ekweremadu, who presided at the session, said that the
passage of the bill would provide adequate protection
for the vulnerable in the society and punish those who
take advantage of them.
He commended the senators and other stakeholders for
their efforts in ensuring that the bill was passed, adding
that it was a good step in the fight against violence in
the society.
“The primary responsibility of government is to protect
lives and property and as a responsible arm of
government, our primary responsibility is to enact laws
that will not only protect our people, but also protect
their property.
“Today, we have discharged one of our responsibilities
to the vulnerable in terms of violence. Congratulations
for this achievement,’’ he said.
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