NGOs Seek End to Discrimination, Stigmatization Against Key Population in Delta

Delta State Government has been urged to make plans and policies to protect the rights of key population- Lesbian ,Gay, Bisexual, Transgender,Queer and intersex (LGBTQI+) , People who use drugs and sex workers in the State.

The call was made yesterday, at a training organized for Journalists on reportage against Discrimination, Stigmatization of Key Populations , at Asaba.

Speaking during the training, the focal Person and representative from Smiles Africa International Youth Development Initiative (SAIYDI), Mr Purpose Iserhienrhien, Stated that key populations have no protection in the Society and are made more vulnerable to abuse , extortion, mob violence, bribery, and kidnapping.

Mr Iserhienrhien explained that Key populations often have unique health challenges related to their identities, such as higher rate of HIV, mental health issues or specific sexual health and reproductive health needs .

He lamented that LGBTQI+, People who use drugs and sex workers can not access adequate health services because of criminalization, stigma and discrimination that they face.

Maintaining that the Key Populations exists in the State, he observed that unaddressed health issues of key population poses threat to the general population.

According to him, the key population faces criminalization by law enforcement officials such as arbitrary arrest, detention, harassment, as well as lack of access to justice.

He however called for a legislation to stop discrimination and stigmatization against key population Nigeria.

Earlier, the Chairman Of Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Comrade Churchill Oyowe said that discriminatory laws and policies can have a significant impact on the lives of key populations, affecting their access to essential rights and health services.

Expressing gratitude to the organizers for their dedication to addressing issues relating to key population , he said that discussions and learning opportunities will empower Journalists to be more effective advocates for social justice and human rights through reporting.

On her part, the State Director, Partnership and Policy Coordination on HIV and AIDs, Mrs Grace Sifo, disclosed that there are five designated clinics in Delta where key population members can receive care.

She said that the Clinics are located in Oshilimi South, Udu, Agbor, Warri South and Ughelli South.

Observing that Medical personnel in the designated clinics have been trained to take care of key population , She advocated for appropriate Use of language on them.

Also , the State House of Assembly member representing Oshilimi South, Hon. Bridget Ayafulu Esq. urged Deltans to show love to one another and avoid discrimination.

Noting that parenting has failed in Nigeria because of influence of the western world, she implored parents to train their children to be open so as to accept issues and address them.

She also urged elected officers and appointees to reach out to their various communities so as to enable the people feel the impact of governance.

The program was Sponsored by ISDAO Love Alliance in collaboration with Smiles Africa International Youth Development Initiative (SAIYDI), Crown Health and Empowerment Initiative (CHEI), Mc Clifford Initiative for Equal Access to Health Care and Human Rights, Securing the Creative Goldmine in Youth Initiative and Mobilize Adaora Development Initiative for Vulnerable Women and Young Girls.