Encourage Women to Embrace Leadership Roles – Chief Judge Tasks FIDA
…as organization Facilitates 347 Reported Gender Issues in 3 Years
Ondo State Chief Judge, Hon. Justice Ayedun Odusola, has called on women to embrace visibility and actively pursue leadership roles in the development of the community, the state, and the country at large.
Odusola made the call while addressing the International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA), Nigeria, Ondo State branch, during their law week celebration held on Friday in Akure, the Ondo State capital.
The Chief Judge, who was represented by Hon. Justice Happiness Demehin-Ogunbayo, charged FIDA to strengthen its orientation programs to reshape societal attitudes toward women in governance.
The keynote speaker, Prof. Omolade Oniyinde, emphasized the persistent marginalization of women in leadership and politics due to cultural, economic, and social barriers. Oniyinde stressed the need for legal reforms, capacity building, and mentorship initiatives to address these challenges and urged the public to support the education of the girl child. She reaffirmed FIDA’s commitment to empowering women and ensuring their inclusion in leadership.
The law week, organized by the Ondo State chapter of FIDA, was marked by a public lecture and an award ceremony with the theme: “Breaking Barriers: Empowering Women’s Leadership in Politics and Governance,” highlighting the importance of advancing women’s roles in politics and governance.
In her welcome address, the Chairperson of FIDA Ondo State, Catherine Ogunjebi, declared that the organization has facilitated 347 reported cases of abuse and violence since December 6, 2021. She also said the organization has established a public hotline where such cases are reported while underscoring its dedication to championing gender equality and women’s empowerment.
Ogunjebi also mentioned improvements in family court processes, the expansion of partnerships with key stakeholders, and sensitization programs aimed at addressing gender-based issues.
The Director General of the Ondo State Contributory Health Commission, Dr. Abiodun Oyeneyin, commended FIDA’s efforts in advancing governance and pledged continued support for the organization.
Acting Chairman of the Ondo State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (OSOPADEC), Princess Abike Ilawole, reiterated her agency’s commitment to strengthening women’s leadership and addressing barriers that hinder women’s progress.
The Ondo State Commissioner of Police, Peter Abayomi, represented by Funmilayo Odunlami, urged parents to guide their wards and encouraged women to believe in their potential.
Ondo State Commandant of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defense Corps (NSCDC), Oluyemi Joshua Ibiloye, represented by ACC Olakanse Folasade, reaffirmed NSCDC’s partnership with FIDA in tackling gender-based violence and societal challenges.
The event featured the presentation of awards to individuals and organizations that have significantly supported FIDA’s mission among which included Dr Biodun Oyeneyin of the Ondo state Contributory Health Commission.
