By Nkechi Eze
The Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), Zone D, has strongly condemned the persistent attacks, killings and rising insecurity across parts of North Central Nigeria, particularly in Plateau State, Benue State and Kwara State.
In an official signed statement, the Zonal Secretary of NAWOJ Zone D, Juliana Ose Ofoku, disclosed that the position was reached at the end of the Zonal Executive Council (ZEC) meeting held virtually on Tuesday and presided over by the Vice President of the zone, Chizoba Ogbeche.
According to the statement, leaders of the zone expressed deep concern over the alarming rate of violent crimes in the region, including recurrent attacks in Plateau State, kidnappings along the Kogi axis, as well as continued killings reported in Benue State and Kwara State.
The meeting, which was attended by the Zonal Secretary, Board of Trustees members from Zone D, Ex-officio members, as well as chairpersons and secretaries of state chapters within the zone, noted that the protection of lives and property remains the primary responsibility of government at all levels.
The association therefore called on the Federal Government, the affected state governments and the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, as well as security agencies, to adopt proactive and intelligence-driven strategies to address the security challenges confronting the region.
NAWOJ Zone D further urged the swift arrest and diligent prosecution of all perpetrators of the attacks to ensure justice and deter future occurrences.
The association also advocated improved collaboration among governors in the North Central region and the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, including the consideration of establishing a regional security outfit to strengthen coordinated responses to insecurity.
In addition, NAWOJ called on the Federal Government to adequately equip security agencies with modern tools and technology, while enhancing intelligence gathering mechanisms to prevent further attacks on communities.
The association also expressed concern over the plight of victims of the violent attacks, particularly women and children, and urged governments at all levels to provide necessary support, including rehabilitation programmes, empowerment initiatives and access to education for affected children.
NAWOJ further noted the economic hardship caused by the rising cost of petroleum products, which it said has significantly increased transportation costs across the country. It therefore called on governments to implement measures such as subsidised transportation and encourage flexible work arrangements to ease the burden on citizens.
The association also decried the poor condition of roads across the country and called for urgent rehabilitation to reduce accidents and economic losses.
NAWOJ Zone D also urged women across the country to actively participate in politics by registering with political parties and contesting elective positions.
It reiterated its commitment to advocating increased representation of women in governance, including the push for special seats for women in legislative bodies.
The association reaffirmed its commitment to promoting peace, security and the advancement of women and society at large.
