Kano Government, Side by Side Movement to Unite Against Digital Violence Targeting Women and Girls
The Kano State Ministry of Information and Internal Affairs has reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding the rights and dignity of women and girls, particularly in the digital space, as it partners with the Side by Side Movement Nigerian Interfaith and Traditional Leaders for Gender Justice to tackle the growing challenges of online abuse in the state.
Speaking, while receiving leaders of the Movement on an advocacy visit, the Commissioner of Information and Internal Affairs, Comrade Ibrahim Abdullahi Waiya expressed deep concern over the rising cases of digital violence against women and girls, describing the trend as “unfortunate and unacceptable,” especially in a society that values justice, human dignity, and constitutional freedoms.
The Commissioner noted that he had long been associated with the Side by Side Movement and still considers himself as part of it, as the Movement aligns with his long-standing commitment to amplifying the voices of the underprivileged.
Waiya emphasized that the Kano State Government under Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf is fully committed to upholding human rights and strengthening justice-sector institutions.
According to him, this commitment is reflected in ongoing reforms aimed at improving the criminal justice system, including the government’s decision to replace police prosecutors in the courts with trained lawyers to ensure more professional and efficient justice delivery.
On digital abuse, the Commissioner lamented that while social media is meant to be a space where citizens freely express their views as guaranteed by the Constitution, some individuals have turned it into a hostile environment particularly for women and the girl-child.
The Commissioner, assured the delegation that the Ministry will develop a strategic engagement framework to mobilize key stakeholders, influential social media actors, and community voices to collectively address digital violence against women and girls in Kano State.
In his remarks, the Co-Chair, Side by Side Movement, Nigerian Interfaith and Traditional Leaders for Gender Justice, Kano State Chapter, Reverend Samuel Adeyemi, said the Movement is seeking for a strong partnership with the Ministry to combat the menace of online abuse targeting women and young girls.
He further called for the government’s support in pushing for the passage of the Violence Against Women and Girls Bill in Kano State, noting that several states across the federation have already enacted similar laws.
Reverend Adeyemi stated that their advocacy visit was aimed at reinforcing the message of zero tolerance for digital violence and ensuring that the online environment becomes safer, respectful, and inclusive for all women and girls.
Signed
Sani Abba Yola
Director special Duties
Kano state Ministry of Information and Internal Affairs
1/12/2025
