The VAPP Act: Women are Making Their Voices Heard Against Its Repeal And Calling For The Protection of Women’s And Girl’s Rights

The VAPP Act: Women are Making Their Voices Heard Against Its Repeal And Calling For The Protection of Women’s And Girl’s Rights

The Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Act (VAPP), a vital piece of legislation enacted in 2015, has been a beacon of hope for countless women and girls in Nigeria. Designed to “prohibit all forms of violence against persons in private and public life,” the VAPP Act offers essential protections against domestic violence, sexual assault, and practices. 

“ The VAPP Act was enacted to eliminate gender-based violence such as rape, domestic violence, spousal battery, intimidation, physical injury, coercion, female circumcision or genital mutilation, and harmful widowhood practices. Even with legislation, GBV keeps rising. We must not let this happen — @faree_for_real

However, this crucial legislation is now under threat. Senator Jibrin Isah of Kogi East District has introduced a bill seeking to repeal the VAPP Act, raising alarm among women’s rights activists and advocates across the country. The bill’s proposed amendments, while ostensibly aimed at strengthening the law, could have devastating consequences for the safety and well-being of women and girls.

“ This is disturbing. He’s asking for proof of intent BEFORE a violent act happens. Like if someone beats their wife they need to bring proof that he intended to cause harm as if the beating is not enough. Also to include consent even if said consent is withdrawn afterwards!!! — @imoteda

The VAPP Act has been instrumental in providing a legal framework for addressing the pervasive issue of gender-based violence in Nigeria. It offers a broad definition of rape, recognizes that men can also be victims of sexual assaults, and provides compensation to survivors of violence. The law’s gender-inclusive approach has been hailed as a significant step forward in protecting the rights of all individuals.

“ Mind you this law is one of the best drafted Acts i’ve read personally and I remember it is so all inclusive that it recognises Women and Children’s rights and also that Men can be rape victims. I am waiting to see the drafting challenges that they speak of. — @_LOHI_

However, despite its importance, the VAPP Act has faced challenges in implementation. Only 34 of Nigeria’s 36 states have domesticated the law, meaning it is not fully enforceable in all parts of the country. This has hindered its effectiveness in protecting women and girls from violence.

“ VAPP was passed by the president of Nigeria in 2015, with just 5 states on board. As at 2022, only 19 states had domesticated the Act. Now that 34 states have accepted the act, we must not watch it repealed. — @SirenCo__

The proposed repeal of the VAPP Act has sparked widespread outrage and concern among Nigerian women and girls. They fear that repealing the law would leave millions vulnerable to abuse and erode the progress made in recent years to address gender-based violence.

GBV is barely punished in this country and now they want to take away the one way victims can get justice. I hate it here and that’s an understatement. —@Theariaspeaks

Women’s rights activists and organizations have been vocal in their opposition to the bill. They argue that repealing the VAPP Act would be a step backward for women’s rights and would send a dangerous message that violence against women is acceptable.

Key Concerns Raised by Women’s Rights Advocates

• Increased vulnerability to violence: Repealing the VAPP Act would leave women and girls more vulnerable to domestic violence, sexual assault, and other forms of gender-based violence.
• Erosion of women’s rights: The VAPP Act is a crucial tool for protecting women’s rights and promoting gender equality. Repealing it would undermine these efforts.
• Lack of justice for survivors: The VAPP Act provides essential legal remedies for survivors of violence. Repealing the law would deny them access to justice.
• Regression on human rights: The VAPP Act is a fundamental human rights law. Repealing it would represent a regression on basic human rights principles.

The Need for Strengthening, Not Repealing

Rather than repealing the VAPP Act, women’s rights advocates argue that the law should be strengthened and amended to address its shortcomings. They call for increased funding for implementation, improved awareness-raising campaigns, and stronger enforcement mechanisms.

It is essential to ensure that the VAPP Act remains a powerful tool for protecting the rights and safety of women and girls in Nigeria. By strengthening the law and addressing its implementation challenges, we can create a more just and equitable society for all.

The proposed repeal of the VAPP Act is a serious threat to the safety and well-being of women and girls in Nigeria. Women’s rights advocates are united in their opposition to this dangerous move. It is imperative that we stand together to protect the VAPP Act and ensure that it remains a vital tool for combating gender-based violence.

By raising our voices and taking action, we can help to safeguard the rights and dignity of all Nigerian women and girls.