International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA), has been challenged to take up the issue of girl child, and women who were being denied their rights by the larger societies.

They have also been told to initiate programmes and enlightenment campaigns that would create awareness for victims.

The wife of the Bayelsa State governor, Mrs. Alanyingi Sylva gave the challenge while hosting members of the state branch of FIDA in Government House, Yenagoa.

Mrs. Sylva said that the knowledge to be derived in such fora will not only empower them but also give women and child victims the courage to stand up and defend their rights.

She frowned at the situation where men take advantage of the girl child and ignorance of women and denied them of their rightful possessions.

She, however, promised to partner with the organisation in bringing succour to the less privileged women and children of the state.

Earlier in her address, the Chairman of FIDA in Bayelsa State, Mrs. Julie Oguara said the organisation is highly impressed with all the programmes initiated in the state by the present administration, particularly in the appointment of women in key positions.

Mrs Oguara who said, her organisation as a non-profit one is engaged in free services to women and children in need, mediation and also counsellings, appealed for government assistance financially and logistically to make their philanthropic services less cumbersome.