Mechanics and Technicians in Niger Seek Greater Awareness to Combat GBV
By Our Reporter
The Amalgamated Union of Motor Mechanics and Technicians of Nigeria (AUOMMATON), Niger State chapter, has called for increased efforts to educate its members on ending Gender-Based Violence (GBV).
Najeem Salaudeen Bello, Chairman of AUOMMATON in Niger State, made this statement during the Strengthening Community Active Participation Against GBV (SCAPAGBV) initiative, which is part of this year’s 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, supported by the Nigeria Women Trust Fund.
The SCAPAGBV is a project by Global Promoters for Community Initiative (GPCI) aimed at eliminating violence in society.
Bello stated, “We will communicate this message to all our members. Previously, we were unaware that certain actions we considered normal constituted violence. Now that we are informed, we will ensure that all our members across the state comply, so we can improve our community.”
He added, “Being aware of GBV and the relevant laws means ignorance can no longer be an excuse for anyone. By adhering to and respecting one another, we can avoid problems in our homes, families, and workplaces. This awareness must be ongoing.”
In her remarks, Mary Yisa, the Niger State Gender-Based Violence Focal Person and Director of Planning, Research, and Statistics for Gender, urged the Union to spread the message among their members, emphasizing that the law will hold accountable anyone who violates it.
“GBV occurs not only at home but also in offices, workshops, and elsewhere. Anyone found in violation will face justice,” she stated.
Yisa encouraged union members to become ambassadors against GBV and work alongside the state to reduce violence toward women and girls.
Earlier, Olasukanmi Kalejaiye, Programme Manager of SCAPAGBV, pointed out that harassment is a form of GBV that must be eradicated from our communities, particularly within workshops.
He urged them to communicate this message to their apprentices, saying, “Anyone who engages in any form of harassment can be sued. Harassment is not limited to sexual actions; it can also be physical or verbal, whether via email, phone, or in person.”
Kalejaiye insisted, “Please refrain from physically abusing your apprentices as a method of discipline. Only the courts have the authority to pass judgment on individuals.”
He also cautioned against using violence with children, noting that the Child Rights Law is enforceable and can lead to legal consequences for offenders.
