Bakassi –In an approach to combat Gender-Based Violence (GBV), the 7th Bakassi Legislative Assembly has proposed a new byelaw aimed at prohibiting, preventing, and responding to GBV within the local government area. The proposed Gender-Based Violence (Prohibition, Prevention, and Response) Byelaw, 2025, was presented on Friday by Hon. Prince Bassey Mkpeti, Deputy Leader of the Assembly, during the plenary session NEGROIDHAVEN has confirmed.
The byelaw seeks to establish a comprehensive legal framework to address all forms of GBV, including sexual, physical, emotional, and economic abuse, with a particular focus on protecting women and girls. Hon. Mkpeti who represents Ward 6 at the Bakassi Legislative Assembly, in his presentation, emphasized the urgent need for legislative action to tackle the rising cases of GBV in the region.
According to the proposal cited by our correspondent, the proposed byelaw outlines several critical objectives, including: ‘Prohibition of GBV’ by explicitly banning all forms of gender-based violence within Bakassi LGA. ‘Community Engagement and Prevention’ via promoting awareness and education to foster a culture of zero tolerance for violence against women and girls. ‘Establishment of Response Mechanisms’ by creating a structured system for reporting, investigating, and addressing GBV cases to ensure survivors receive timely support and justice. ‘Empowerment of Communities’ through enabling communities to develop and enforce local rules that promote gender equality and protect the rights of women and girls.
Hon. Mkpeti, in his address to the Assembly, stated, “This Byelaw represents a critical step towards addressing Gender-Based Violence within our communities. It is our collective responsibility to ensure its passage and implementation for the protection and empowerment of our people.”
The byelaw also aims to hold perpetrators accountable through legal and social sanctions, including fines and community service, while ensuring survivors have access to essential services such as medical care, psychological counseling, and legal aid.
Mkpeti further noted that the proposed legislation emphasizes collaboration between local government authorities, community leaders, and civil society organizations to effectively combat GBV. It also seeks to promote sustainable peace and development by creating safer, more inclusive communities where women and girls can thrive free from violence and discrimination.
The byelaw has been presented for its first reading and is expected to undergo further legislative scrutiny, including a second reading and public hearings, before being passed into law.
Hon. Mkpeti concluded his remarks by urging his colleagues to give the byelaw due consideration, stating, “I, therefore, urge this Honourable House to give due consideration to this Byelaw for its second reading and further legislative action.”
Rt. Hon. Grace Bassey the Leader of the 7th Assembly committed the byelaw proposal to the assembly’s Committee on Health/Gender for further actions.
