WARDC Presents Document To Reduce Unsafe Abortion In Jigawa

By: Ahmed Aminu, Dutse

 

The Women Advocates Research and Documentation Centre (WARDC), has presented policy documents to guide Jigawa State Government in taking measures to reduce unsafe abortion in the state.

The Safe Termination of Pregnancy (STOP) policy document was officially presented shortly after a one-day high-level stakeholders’ meeting held in Dutse.

The advocacy group said government must take measures to  reduce cases of unsafe abortions being carried out by quacks, unlicensed, and unqualified medical personnel across the state.

Presenting the document, Miss Shella Ibrahim Audu said:

“Looking at the peculiarity of Jigawa and the high rate of deaths among women due to unsafe practices, the STOP guidelines highlight conditions, such as rape, under which termination of pregnancy should be allowed.

“With proper legislation, qualified medical professionals will handle such cases, preventing victims from falling into the hands of quacks.”

She emphasized that enacting and implementing supportive laws would empower women to exercise their health rights and make informed decisions about their lives.

The WARDC official also stressed the need for effective implementation of policies, noting that while Nigeria has good laws on paper, enforcement remains weak.

According to her, Jigawa is one of six states selected for the rollout of the STOP guidelines, alongside Osun, Oyo, Gombe, Akwa Ibom and Anambra, due to the alarming number of women dying from complications as a result of unsafe abortion.

She added that the document would serve as a vital tool to guide policymakers and healthcare stakeholders in addressing the menace.