The Plateau State Gender and Equal Opportunities Commission (PLASGEOC) has called on citizens to report cases of gender violence and human rights abuses.
According to Mrs. Nene Dung, Director of Information at PLASGEOC, men who are victims of violence at the hands of women should not suffer in silence but rather report such incidents to the commission.
Speaking at a one-day training workshop for journalists on gender-sensitive reporting and promoting inclusive storytelling, Mrs. Dung emphasized that both men and women who experience gender-based violence should report their cases to the commission. The workshop aimed to equip journalists with the skills to handle gender-related stories with sensitivity.
In her welcome address, the Acting Chairperson of PLASGEOC, Barr. Olivia Dzem, highlighted the challenges the commission faces in addressing gender violence due to cultural beliefs in the society.
Commissioners of Information, Hon. Joyce Ramnap, represented by Mrs. Recheal Dayigil, and the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Mrs. Caroline Panglang Dafur, commended the commission’s efforts since its establishment about two years ago. They noted that the commission’s activities have positively impacted many lives and addressed critical issues.
The Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Plateau State Council, Mrs. Ayuku Pwaspo, assured PLASGEOC of journalists’ continued support for good governance and social justice reporting.
During the training, a facilitator, Jumai Madaki warned against using images that could escalate tensions and emphasized the importance of thorough investigation and unbiased reporting, particularly in cases involving traumatized individuals.
The Plateau State Gender and Equal Opportunities Commission was established by Governor Caleb Mutfwang’s administration to protect vulnerable populations, including women and children.
