The National Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ) has called on the Federal Government to impose stiffer penalties for rapists to serve as a deterrent to others.
This was contained in a communiqué issued at the end of its 2012 National Executive Council (NEC) meeting held in Abeokuta on Saturday.
NAWOJ also advocated for a legislation to cater for domestic violence as well as protect young girls against harmful traditional practices and molestation.
?“There should be a legislation to break the silence, so that victims can speak out without fear.
“NAWOJ is also calling on the Federal Government to domesticate the CEDAW bill and the total elimination of all kinds of violence against women,” the communiqué said.
The association urged the Federal Government to fully implement the 35 per cent affirmative action and commended the Inspector-General of Police for the removal of road blocks across the country.
It, however, advocated for the introduction of community policing, vigilante groups and other security structures to assist the police in ensuring the safety of lives and property.
The communiqué stressed the need for the police to take proactive steps that would stem the incidences of bombings and ritual killings.
It commiserated with the families of the 18 graduates of Imo State University who died while traveling by night journey to Taraba State for the Batch “A” NYSC Orientation camp.
NAWOJ also appealed to the authority saddled with the responsibility of issuing call-up letters to do so on time to give prospective corps members’ ample time to travel.
It also called on government to take measures to address the plight of pensioners who were suffering untold hardships before getting their entitlements as well as the issue of unemployment.
“Government should establish skills acquisition centres to occupy the youths, and check the rise in anti-social vices and youth restiveness in the society associated with poverty and unemployment,” the communiqué stated.
NAWOJ commended the government of Ogun, the Ogun Chief Judge, Justice Olatokunbo Olopade, Dangote and Nestle Nigeria Ltd, for their support towards the successful hosting of the 2012 NEC.
?
?
???????????
?
?