The Kano State Ministry of Information and Internal Affairs has reaffirmed its commitment to protecting women and girls online during an advocacy visit from the Side by Side Movement, a network of Nigerian inter‑faith and traditional leaders for gender justice .
The Independent Mirror reports that the Commissioner of Information and Internal Affairs, Comrade Ibrahim Abdullahi Waiya, expressed deep concern over the rising tide of digital abuse.
“We consider the trend unfortunate and unacceptable in a society that values justice, human dignity and constitutional freedoms,” Waiya said.
He noted that his long‑standing association with the movement aligns with his dedication to amplifying the voices of the under‑privileged.
Under Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, the state government is pursuing reforms to strengthen the criminal‑justice system, including replacing police prosecutors with trained lawyers.
Waiya announced that the ministry will develop a strategic framework to engage stakeholders, social‑media influencers and community leaders in a coordinated effort to curb online violence.
Reverend Samuel Adeyemi, Co‑Chair of the Side by Side Movement’s Kano chapter, called for a strong partnership with the ministry and urged the government to back the passage of the Violence Against Women and Girls Bill in Kano.
“Our advocacy aims to reinforce zero tolerance for digital violence and make the online space safer and more inclusive for all women and girls,” he said.
The collaboration seeks to combine government resources with the movement’s grassroots reach, creating a united front against online harassment and promoting a more respectful digital environment across the state.
