International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance, also known as International IDEA, today engaged with the Benue state Ministry of Justice at the Ministry’s headquarters on strengthening sexual and gender based violence (SGBV) prevention, response, case management and survivors' referral mechanisms as the second component of its SGBV project in Benue state.

Juliet Olumuyiwa-Rufai, leader of the delegation, who led discussion on survivors’ centre service and protection, stated that the mission is guided by the penal code and the VAPP law in all its operations. She reiterated the need for synergy with key actors like Ministry of Justice, the police; Ministry of Women Affairs and Ministry of Health to ensure collaborative efforts that mitigate the incidence of SGBV, its management  and survivors’ referral procedure.

The Solicitor General and Permanent Secretary, Ese Thomas Esq, who represented the Hon Commissioner, in his welcome address, expressed the ministry’s readiness to work with International IDEA, and solicited for its supports to build the capacity of staff in data collection, in prosecuting SGBV cases, and to enhance standards for medical reporting on SGBV cases.

Director, Public prosecution, Dooshima Ortsega Esq, informed the delegation that Ministry of Justice now has a website where members of the public can register their complaints, with established legal desks at some of the IDP camps in the state. Ortsega on behalf of the ministry solicited for international IDEA’s assistance for a solar power installation at the ministry headquarters for ease of operations and greater service delivery to the people of Benue state.

Sunday Otse

Information Officer

Ministry of Justice