The National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) has issued a stern warning against tampering with evidence or intimidating witnesses in cases of Sexual and Gender Based Violence (SGBV). Professor Fatima Waziri-Azi, the Director General of NAPTIP, emphasized this during a Community Advocacy Dialogue on SGBV in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
Addressing issues in Abaji Area Council, the DG expressed concern over allegations of suppressing SGBV cases and emphasized the repercussions of such actions. She highlighted the importance of reporting offenses and stressed the legal consequences of intimidating witnesses or attempting to manipulate the judicial process.
In efforts to combat SGBV, NAPTIP has actively pursued convictions, including four rape convictions in 2023 and seven in 2024. The implementation of the Violence Against Persons Prohibition Act (VAPPA) empowers NAPTIP to address SGBV cases in the FCT.
The involvement of protection officers in communities and collaboration with law enforcement and NGOs has improved reporting and prosecution of SGBV cases. The Chief of Abaji commended NAPTIP’s efforts and pledged support for addressing SGBV offenses in the area.
This dialogue highlighted the commitment of various stakeholders in creating awareness and taking decisive actions against SGBV in the FCT.