Senator Jibrin Isah’s proposal to repeal the Violence Against Persons Prohibition (VAPP) Act has sparked widespread concern across Nigeria, with citizens expressing fears of regressing on hard-won protections against violence.
Senator Jibrin Isah, representing Kogi East, has sparked widespread concern with his proposal to repeal the Violence Against Persons Prohibition (VAPP) Act. The bill, which recently passed its second reading, has ignited debates across Nigeria, particularly regarding the senator’s assertion that the definition of consent within the Act requires further clarification.
The VAPP Act, initially enacted to address gender-based violence, harmful practices, and other forms of exploitation, has been a significant legal tool in the fight against violence in Nigeria. The prospect of its repeal has raised alarms among citizens, who view the move as a step backward in the country's progress toward protecting vulnerable individuals.
Many Nigerians have taken to social media to express their dismay and frustration. A common theme among the reactions is skepticism about the motivations behind the bill, with numerous comments pointing to the questionable track record of politicians from Kogi State. For instance, one user, A.Y. Moh Esq., expressed disappointment, remarking, "I don't want to sound insensitive or discriminatory against this particular state, but there's something about Kogi State. I am unsurprised that this emanates from a Senator in that state."
Other users echoed this sentiment, with some questioning why the Act cannot simply be amended if certain provisions are problematic, rather than being entirely repealed. The hashtag #ProtectTheVAPP has gained traction as citizens rally to prevent the bill from progressing further.
Additionally, the proposal has drawn criticism for what some see as a lack of visionary leadership in the Nigerian Senate, with commentators highlighting the need for more robust representation from Kogi State. As the debate continues, many are calling for greater public awareness and advocacy to ensure that the protections provided by the VAPP Act are not undermined.
