Worried by the ambiguity of the Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) (VAPP) Act, especially on how it affects widows, the Rose of Sharon Foundation (RoSF) has called for the Act to be more specific and an increased penalty for defaulters.
The Foundation explained that Section 15 prohibits practices that are harmful to widows but does not explain comprehensively what those practices are.
This was discussed, yesterday, at a press briefing to unveil plans to commemorate its 15th anniversary of championing socio-legal protection and economic empowerment for widows, their children, and orphans in Nigeria.
Founder, RoSF, Apostle Folorunso Alakija, said, “We advocate an amendment of Section 15 of the VAPP Act for a more inclusivity, and a specific law that provides comprehensive protection coverage for the peculiar challenges and experiences of widows in Nigeria, and recourse for violation of widows’ rights.”
To mark this significant milestone, the foundation outlined a series of activities. Among them is a nationwide awareness and advocacy walk, which will take place in key locations across the country to unite communities and raise awareness about the peculiar challenges faced by widows, while emphasising the importance of upholding their rights.
The foundation will present a compelling short documentary that chronicles the transformative policy journey towards socio-legal protection for widows and orphans since the publication of the Founder’s book, “A Cry of Widows and Orphans,” and the enactment of the Violence Against Persons Prohibition (VAPP) Act in 2015.
Reflecting on the anniversary, Alakija, described the journey as a worthwhile and rewarding experience, emphasising the fulfillment derived from catering to the welfare and economic empowerment of disadvantaged widows and ensuring their children’s education.
She highlighted the foundation’s significant progress in advocacy, particularly in promoting the rights of widows, which supported the passage of VAPP Act in 2015.
Country Manager, Rose of Sharon Foundation, Dr. Ndudi Bowei, stressed on the foundation’s unwavering commitment to championing the cause of widows through initiatives and programs that support socio-legal protection, and guarantee financial independence and educational opportunities for widows, their dependents, and orphans.
She disclosed further that the nationwide advocacy walk is part of a week-long programme that aims to encourage individuals and organisations to lend support in promoting the rights of the vulnerable in the society.
