By: Mustapha Gambo Muhammad
Hajiya Amina Hanga, the Executive Director of Isa Wali Empowerment Initiatives, has been elected as the new chairperson of the Coalition Against Rape and Violence (CARAV).
CARAV is a collaboration of key stakeholders from governmental and non-governmental organizations united in their fight against rape and violence through various strategic initiatives.
Other persons also elected to various positions include: Aisha Abubakar as vice chairperson, Abbas Ibrahim as Secretary, Mustapha Gambo Muhammad as Assistant Secretary, Mustapha Muhammad as Treasurer, and Dayyabu Abdulqadir Waziri as Financial Secretary.
These individuals will steer the activities of the Coalition for the next two years.
In her speech, the newly elected chairperson of CARAV emphasized the need for members’ cooperation and commitment to eradicating rape and violence.
She highlighted that the harmful practice requires collective efforts to combat the action.
“We come together today not merely to remember why we began this journey, but to rekindle the fire that drives us. We are here to revive something that should never have gone quiet—a coalition united against rape, sexual violence, and all forms of abuse.
The convener also added,” We are here to re-energize our efforts, realign our strategies, and recommit to our shared mission of ending violence and creating safe spaces for survivors and communities. Rape and violence continue to cast dark shadows over too many communities, leaving survivors in pain and societies grappling with the consequences. In the face of these challenges, CARAV used to stand as a beacon of hope, resilience, and determination.”
She pointed out that the reactivation meeting marks a pivotal moment. “We are here to reignite our purpose, strengthen our unity, and chart a renewed path forward.
According to her, CARAV has the power to amplify the voices of survivors, to push for systemic change, and to cultivate a culture where dignity, respect, and safety are not privileges, but rights afforded to every individual.
In her remarks, Justice Maryam Ahmad Sabo, a founding member of the Coalition, highlighted the need for the prevention of such occurrences.
The Jurist, stressed the need for sensitization and strong collaboration among stakeholders as the way forward to combat the menace.
Speaking as a founding father, Professor Muhammad Tabi’u, SAN, explained that the establishment of CARAV was a direct response to a 2011 rape case involving some law enforcement officers.
The legal luminary stated, “The case attracted a public outcry until the culprits were brought to book by the court of law.” This event, Professor Tabi’u emphasized, highlighted a serious concern about the rampant occurrence of Sexual and Gender-Based Violence.
According to him, from its inception, the Coalition adopted tactical strategies, incorporating both CSOs, Government Agencies, and Non-Governmental Organisations.
Professor Tabi’u charged new leadership to be committed and review constitution of Coalition and refine strategies to address the prevalent of rape occurrence.
