Female lawyers under the aegis of the International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA), on Wednesday, protested continuous abduction and killing of women and children across the country.

The female legal practitioners, while demanding urgent action, said the development was unacceptable, stressing that abuse, kidnappings and exploitation have become a national emergency.

They spoke in Abuja through their Country Vice President, Eliana Martins, during the opening of FIDA Nigeria’s Second Quarter National Executive Council (NEC) Meeting.

According to them, the country is witnessing a dangerous pattern of abuse that can no longer be dismissed as isolated criminal incidents, adding that they would do everything possible to resist the menace.

Martins maintained that the increasing prevalence of gender-based violence, child abuse, trafficking, exploitation and insecurity reflects deeper institutional failures that require immediate and coordinated intervention.

FIDA boss lamented that behind every reported case lies a human tragedy, with countless women stripped of their dignity and children robbed of safety and opportunity.

“The frequency and severity of violations against women and children in Nigeria can no longer be treated as isolated incidents. They reflect a troubling national pattern that demands urgent and sustained action,” he said.

FIDA expressed concern over the growing number of reports involving rape, domestic violence, harmful traditional practices, child labour and neglect, warning that the physical, psychological and economic consequences continue to devastate families and communities across the country.

The association called on governments, security agencies and judicial institutions to strengthen enforcement of laws protecting women and children, expand access to legal aid and survivor support services, and ensure perpetrators are investigated and prosecuted without delay.