Advocacy For Women With Disabilities Initiative (AWWDI) has said that it is committed to advocating for Justice for Aisha Aminu, a woman with disability who was murdered in Kogi State in the month of June, 2023 by her boyfriend.
The group made this commitments during a press briefing on the occasion of 16 days activism against gender based violence with the theme: “Equal Access, Equal Rights: Towards A Disability Inclusive World”.
The acting National Coordinator Of AWWDI, Yakubu Bilikisu told the press that 16 days of activism which runs from November 25th to December 10th is aimed at raising awareness and mobilizing action towards ending violence against women and girls.
Speaking further, she said that this year’s campaign with the theme: “Invest to reduce violence against women and girls” highlights the importance of addressing the unique challenges faced by women and girls with disabilities in Nigeria while advocating for their rights to live free from violence and discrimination.
“We would like to express our deep appreciation to our partner, Disability Rights Fund (DRF) who made invaluable support in making these initiatives possible. DRF commitment to building inclusive societies and sustaining the rights of women and girls, especially those with disabilities is commendable” she added.
“AWWDI/Disability Rights Fund remains deeply committed to seeking justice for cases of gender based violence, including the tragic murder of Aisha Aminu, a woman with disability who was murdered in Kogi State in the month of June 2023. Aisha case is currently undergoing legal proceedings, and while we cannot delve into specifics due to the ongoing court proceedings, we emphasize our commitment to advocating for Justice for Aisha and others who have experienced similar injustices”.
She informed that AWWDI has implemented several impactful projects aimed at eradicating gender based violence against women and girls with disabilities, as well as promoting their sexual reproductive health rights. These projects have directly empowered women and girls with disabilities by providing them with knowledge, resources, and support to assert their rights and live dignified lives.
She also informed that AWWDI in marking the 16 Days of Activism has lined up a series of events to raise awareness, educate communities, and call for action. There would be activities such as seminars, workshops, rallies, and advocacy campaigns.
“Additionally, AWWDI will be collaborating with various stakeholder to ensure the delivery of comprehensive services and support systems for women and girls with disabilities who have experienced gender based violence”.
She called on the public to participate actively in the events and engage in conversations around GBV, disability rights and importance of Inclusivity. Saying that it is only through collective efforts and the mobilization of every individual that we can bring about lasting change in our society.
She also called on government, CSOs and the public to support the cause of women and girls with disabilities, working towards creating an inclusive society that fosters their safety, well being, and empowerment.
AWWDI is a women led organization of persons with disabilities. It has been at the forefront of the fight against gender based violence targeting women and girls with disabilities. Their unwavering dedication and tireless efforts have paved the way for change and equality in our society.
