Participants have called for the establishment of sexual referral centers in hospitals across Benue state.
The call was made at the end of a training workshop on Gender Based Violence (GBV) organized by UNFPA, in conjunction with Benue State University, Makurdi.
The purpose of the sexual referral centers is to provide medical and psycho-social support to victims following increasing number of GBV cases in the state.
In a communique issued after a ten day train- the- trainer workshop on Gender Based Violence in Emergencies, the participants particularly urged the society to speak out against social
vices such as GBV.
The Communiqué signed by Prof. Gabriel Akume, Chairperson and five others highlighted the fact that the state currently only has one referral center despite the rising vases of GBV.
They emphasized the need for Sexual Assault Referral Centers in all hospitals across Benue state, equipped with necessary materials and specialized staff to effectively address GBV issues.
It also advocated for a closer collaboration between the centers and Benue State University.
The participants also recommended incorporating thematic areas of GBV into the school curriculum, enhancing cooperation between the Benue state government and donor agencies to improve conditions at the IDP camp in Mbayongo, and providing literacy education facilities for children in the camps.
The Communiqué suggested deploying digital security surveillance devices, such as drones, in and around the IDP camps for swift response to security concerns.
Additionally, the participants urged UNFPA to extend its training to the Nigerian Police, Security agencies, and the Judiciary in Benue State to ensure proper and prompt handling of GBV cases and other humanitarian crises.
