We developed this Simplified Version of the Osun State VAPP Law to make the law more accessible to stakeholders, including CSOs, MDAs, CBOs, and survivors. The document presents the provisions of the VAPP Law in a clear and concise manner, making it easier for stakeholders to understand and apply in their work.
Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) (VAPP) is a significant piece of legislation in Nigeria that seeks to prevent and prohibit all forms of violence against persons, particularly women and girls. This law is aimed at providing legal protection for survivors of gender-based violence (GBV), ensuring that perpetrators are held accountable, and promoting a culture of zero tolerance for violence in society. This VAPP laws has been domesticated in some states to incorporate the peculiarities of each states, and their capacity towards strengthening the support and response on Gender-based violence.
However, The VAPP Law, along with its domesticated versions in different states, can be intricate and challenging to comprehend, particularly for individuals without a legal background. As a result, it has not been as successful in achieving its objectives, as many parties such as Civil Society Organizations (CSOs), Government Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs), Case managers, Community-Based Organizations (CBOs), and victims themselves may not entirely understand its clauses and consequences. This lack of understanding could also contribute to the high level of impunity for perpetrators of gender-based violence.
CEWHIN has produced a simplified version of the VAPP Law of Osun State through our Ford Foundation supported project on Strengthening Access to Community-Based Psychosocial Support for Survivors of Violence Against Women and Girls.
The simplified VAPP Law of Osun State is an important tool for combating GBV/VAWG/Harmful Practices in Osun State. It empowers everyone to prevent and respond to GBV, promote survivor rights, and hold criminals accountable through approachable legislation. Consequently, the stakeholders’ ability to tackle GBV, VAWG, and harmful practices in the state will be strengthened.
It is important to note that while there is a National Violence Against Persons Prohibition Law, each state has domesticated the laws to suit the peculiarities of their environment. Therefore, the simplified VAPP Law of Osun State is specific to the state and may differ from other states’ versions.
The simplified Osun State VAPP Law is a crucial step in enhancing law implementation. We urge stakeholders to download and use it to combat GBV and promote zero tolerance for violence.
Click here to download a copy of the Simplified Osun State VAPP Law