The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Chapter of the International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA) has called for a collaborative partnership with the media to promote and protect the rights of women and children.
Speaking at a media parley, the FIDA newly elected FCT chairperson, Barr. Chioma Onyenucheya-Uko called on journalists to highlight the plight of women and children.
“The core is women and children. And we see it daily; sadly, in fact, it happens every day. I mean, there was one that was just trending recently about a woman who was incinerated by her husband.
“You know, women and children face all forms of harmful, degrading, discriminatory practices daily. And many times, these are people who may not be able to afford the services of lawyers. And we realise that as part of giving back to society, as women who have been called to the practice of law in Nigeria, we can at least come together, which is what FIDA does,” she said.
Onyenucheya-Ukoh noted that FIDA’s mission is to promote, preserve, and protect the rights of women and children and appealed to the media to support the organisation’s efforts by providing accurate and sensitive reporting.
“So this is an appeal that in reporting gender-related stories, particularly as they affect women and girls, can we be more sensitive? FIDA is available to give every necessary legal opinion, advice, and guidance that will help you in doing that. Even in the choice of words used when reporting some of the stories. For example, you’re reading about a child that has been defiled. The language may suggest that the child may lend consent to it. I have heard such things. I have read such things,” she said.
She also highlighted the need for enlightenment and awareness creation on the rights of women and children and urged the media to use their platforms to educate the public on these issues.
The Chairperson further appealed to the media to provide pro-bono services to FIDA, citing the organisation’s limited budget and reliance on donations.
In response, the media representatives present at the parley expressed their willingness to collaborate with FIDA and provide support in promoting the rights of women and children.
The FIDA Abuja branch has pledged to keep the media informed about its activities and events and to provide necessary guidance and support to ensure accurate and responsible reporting.
The partnership is expected to yield positive outcomes, including increased awareness and education on women’s and children’s rights and improved reporting on gender-related issues.
