Ondo FIDA Decries Poor Enforcement of Laws Protecting Women, Children
The Chairperson of the International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA), Ondo State Chapter, Barrister Bolanle Olafunmiloye, has expressed concern that despite the existence of numerous laws and policies protecting women and children, violations remain widespread due to weak implementation.
She noted that “Our nation, and indeed our sunshine state, Ondo State, has no shortage of laws, policies, frameworks, and declarations that speak loudly about protecting women and children. We have the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, which clearly prohibits all forms of discrimination. We also have several international instruments and enactments by the National Assembly and national policies that look out for the rights of women and children.”
“Despite these provisions, she said women and children—especially girls—continue to face abuse.”
Olafunmiloye made the remarks while addressing members of the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), Ondo State Chapter, during activities marking the 2025 FIDA Week in the state. She stressed the need for stronger collaboration and collective action among stakeholders to curb all forms of violence against women and children.
Speaking on the theme, “Turning Policy into Action: Advancing the Rights of Women through Law and Governance,” she observed that the gap between policy and action remains significant.
According to her, “While the laws exist, implementation is inconsistent. Commitment is often rhetorical. Enforcement is slow. Survivors continue to face stigma, silence, and systemic barriers.”
She also raised alarm over the growing rate of technology-facilitated violence at a time when society is still battling physical forms of abuse. Olafunmiloye criticised the attitude of communities that shield perpetrators and silence victims instead of helping them seek justice.
“This culture of silence enables abuse, and abuse thrives where accountability is weak. We are all ENABLERS,” she said.
Highlighting FIDA’s work in Ondo State over the past 15 years, she mentioned efforts such as free legal representation, advocacy, sensitisation, and capacity building for stakeholders. She called for adequate funding for law-enforcement agencies to ensure effective implementation and enforcement of relevant laws.
Olafunmiloye further urged government to demonstrate genuine political will by moving beyond the enactment of laws to practical action. On the role of the media, she stressed the importance of amplifying accurate information on the rights of women and children, investigating and exposing injustices, supporting survivors through responsible reporting, and sustaining public awareness on digital safety and emerging forms of violence.
Chairperson of the 2025 FIDA Week Planning Committee, Alhaji Kudirat Gbadamosi, outlined the activities lined up for the celebration. The events began on Thursday, December 4, with a visit to the Ondo Female Correctional Centre, followed by a media chat and Jumat service on Friday, a Fit4Wellness session on Saturday at the Gani Fawehinmi Freedom Arcade, a thanksgiving service at the Government House Chapel on Sunday, and an outreach to Wise Virgin Orphanage with gift presentations to less-privileged children.
The week-long programme will climax on Monday, December 8, with a public lecture featuring former Ondo State Governor, Dr. Olusegun Mimiko, as keynote speaker. Awards will also be presented to individuals who have significantly contributed to FIDA’s work in the state.
Dignitaries in attendance included the pioneer FIDA Chairperson and Director of Public Prosecution in the Ministry of Justice, Mrs. Tuki; retired Permanent Secretary, Mrs. Adejumo; and the Deputy Country President of FIDA, Mrs. Bunmi Niyi-Arajuwa.
Arajuwa urged journalists to amplify cases of digital violence affecting women and all victims, describing cyberbullying, stalking, and sextortion as growing threats across genders.