Gombe Launches United Front Against GBV, Traditional Political Backing
From Abubakar Rabilu Gombe
In a bold push to eliminate gender-based violence (GBV) across Gombe State, the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Asma’u Mohammed Iganus, has formally presented the Gombe State GBV Prohibition Law to key traditional and local government leaders.
The landmark event, held at the Emir’s Palace in Gombe, brought together influential stakeholders including His Royal Highness, the Emir of Gombe, Alhaji Dr. Abubakar Shehu Abubakar III, and the Chairman of Gombe Local Government Council, Barr. Sani Ahmad Haruna.
The high-level advocacy visit signals a new phase in the fight against domestic abuse, sexual violence, and other harmful practices. With traditional leaders, lawmakers, and community representatives now on board, the state is laying the groundwork for lasting change.
In her welcome remarks, Hajiya Fatima Abubakar Umar Abubakar, Director of Finance and Administration at the Ministry, emphasized the urgency of the issue, noting that cases of abuse are on the rise in Gombe.
She said this disturbing trend prompted the Ministry to forge strategic alliances with the Gombe Emirate in order to effectively address the crisis.
She also thanked the Emir for his consistent support of underprivileged women and his willingness to champion their rights at the community level.
In his remarks, Hon. Gabriel Galadima, Chairman of the Gombe State House of Assembly Committee on Women Affairs, stated that Governor Inuwa Yahaya had authorized the passage of the GBV Prohibition Law, which is now moving into its implementation phase.
He lamented that a state known for peace is now witnessing increasing reports of abuse against women and children.
Galadima emphasized that the visit to the Emir was intended to solicit his influence in sensitizing the public, stressing that no one regardless of status should be above the law.
Commissioner for women Affairs Asma’u Iganus, speaking to palace dignitaries and stakeholders, called for immediate grassroots enforcement of the GBV law.
She highlighted the indispensable role of traditional leaders in mobilizing societal change and shifting harmful cultural norms.
“Our traditional leaders are not just symbols they are voices of moral authority,” she said.
“To root out violence and protect our people, we need their leadership more than ever.”
Receiving the law on behalf of the Emir, The Dan Lawan Gombe, Dr. Sani Adamu Jauro, described the initiative as timely and essential.
He assured the Commissioner of the Emirate Council’s full cooperation and pledged to support enforcement efforts at the community level.
Gombe Local Government Chairman, Barr. Sani Ahmad Haruna, also pledged his council’s commitment to enforcing the law, expanding public awareness, and fostering community education.
“The fight against GBV is everyone’s responsibility,” he said.
“We must end the silence, remove the shame, and protect our most vulnerable citizens.”
Also in attendance were community leaders and influencers, including Yerima Ladan Gaule and Adamu Musa, who reaffirmed their commitment to supporting the initiative.
The campaign, spearheaded by the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development with support from UN Women, forms part of a broader, multi-layered strategy to institutionalise gender protection and accountability across Gombe State.
With traditional institutions, political leadership, and community networks aligned, Gombe is charting a powerful new path: a future free from gender-based violence.
