By Ibrahim Abubakar Yola
Conducted a comprehensive two-day training session for 30 paralegals in Yola North LGA. In collaboration with the International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA), CARE International, Aisha Umar, the Protection/GBV Officer at CARE International, highlighted during an interview in Yola, she said that the initiative falls under the HARP project funded by FCDO.
The primary objective of the training was to equip Paralegal Committees to play a pivotal role in combatting Gender-Based Violence (GBV). By enhancing their capabilities to raise awareness and offer vital legal support and services, the training aimed to empower them to significantly contribute to the well-being and safety of GBV survivors, facilitating their access to legal assistance.
Aisha emphasized the pivotal role of paralegals as the initial contact point for survivors of GBV and other rights violations. They are poised to act as advisors to community-based mediation services and traditional community tribunals, mediating disputes. Their expertise in understanding GBV principles, PSEA (Prevention of Sexual Exploitation and Abuse), referral pathways, handling GBV disclosures, and familiarity with the legal frameworks enacted in Adamawa State are crucial. Insufficient awareness and comprehension of GBV laws in many communities hinder survivors from seeking legal aid, perpetuating impunity for perpetrators.
In presented papers by FIDA representatives, Magistrate Aishatu Hamidun underscored the multifaceted responsibilities of paralegals, including fact examination, record-keeping, conducting legal clinics, community capacity-building, networking, advocacy, conflict resolution, and counseling skills.
Barrister Fadimatu Aliyu Babakano emphasized in her presentation on Alternative Dispute Resolution Mechanisms that these systems aid in expediting the justice system's processes, reducing delays.
Barrister Fatima Raji's presentation centered on the legal frameworks, both international and national, governing citizens' rights within the community. She urged community support for paralegals, stressing their collaboration with solicitors, barristers, or chartered legal executives, which contributes to community well-being.
Participants were selected from Jambutu, Yelwa, Limawa, Damilu, and Nasarawa communities within Yola metropolis."
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