UN Women urges calm over Ondo Women Affairs Commissioner, magistrate face-off

The Ondo State chapter of UN Women – Gender Equality and Women Empowerment (GEWE) has expressed concern over the recent dispute between the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development and a magistrate of the Family Magistrate Court, which has resulted in a lawsuit and a court order for the commissioner’s arrest.

In a statement issued on Friday, the women coalition said it was closely monitoring the situation, noting that the development was unfortunate given the shared responsibility of both institutions in safeguarding the rights and welfare of women and children in the state.

The group emphasised the need for harmonious working relationships among public institutions whose mandates intersect in the service of the common good.

It acknowledged the constitutional role and independence of the judiciary, describing the Family Magistrate Court as a critical institution in the protection of vulnerable groups and the administration of justice.

According to the statement, the integrity and independence of the court must be upheld at all times to ensure continued access to justice, protection and accountability for women and children.

UN Women GEWE, however, also commended the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development for what it described as her sustained commitment to women empowerment and child protection through policies, programmes and initiatives that have positively impacted families across Ondo State.

The organisation noted that both the Ministry of Women Affairs and the Family Magistrate Court are driven by a common objective—the promotion, protection and advancement of the rights of women and children—adding that cooperation, mutual respect and constructive engagement remain essential in achieving this goal.

In view of the unfolding situation, the group called for calm and appealed for dialogue and an amicable resolution of the issues, urging all parties to act in a manner that preserves institutional integrity and keeps attention focused on the best interests of women and children in the state.

The statement, signed by the Chairperson of UN Women GEWE, Ondo State Chapter, Mrs Olabisi Omolona, added that the organisation was willing to support peaceful engagement and collaborative efforts aimed at strengthening partnerships and advancing gender equality and women empowerment in Ondo State.