By Mercy Aikoye
The leadership of the House of Representatives has made a bold commitment to ending all forms of violence against women and girls. This promise was made during a historic march against gender-based violence, where the Speaker of the House, Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, emphasized the urgent need for action. Citing a disturbing report from the United Nations, Hon. Abbas noted that a woman dies from violence every ten seconds, and a woman is killed every ten minutes worldwide.
Hon. Abbas vowed that the National Assembly would work tirelessly to reduce, if not eliminate, all forms of violence against women and girls. He Vowed that the House of Representatives would play an active role in the next National Action Plan Against Women violence. The Chairman of the House Committee on Women Affairs and Social Development, Hon. Kafilat Ogbara, reinforced this commitment, emphasizing that one in three women globally are victims of gender-based violence.
Hon. Ogbara led a march to the office of the Inspector General of Police, where she presented a petition calling for speedy administration of justice to victims of gender-based violence. The Inspector General of Police, Mr. Kayode Egbetokun, promised to study and implement the content of the petition. He acknowledged that eradicating gender-based violence requires a collective effort from everyone.
The Minister of Youth Development, Mr. Ayodele Olawande, also lent his voice to the call to end gender-based violence. He emphasized that collaboration among ministries and agencies would be crucial in reducing gender-based violence in Nigeria. This commitment from Nigeria’s leaders is a significant step towards addressing the pervasive issue of gender-based violence.
In Nigeria, gender-based violence is a grim reality that affects many women and girls. According to reports, one in four women in Nigeria experience sexual violence as children. This disturbing trend underscores the need for urgent action from leaders and citizens alike.
The House of Representatives’ commitment to ending gender-based violence is a welcome development. However, it requires sustained effort and collaboration from all stakeholders. As Hon.Abbas emphasized, it is a collective obligation of everyone to eradicate gender-based violence.
To achieve this goal, it is essential to engage traditional and religious leaders, as they play a significant role in shaping cultural attitudes and behaviors. In August 2022, traditional and religious leaders in Nigeria pledged their commitment to supporting women’s participation in elections and preventing electoral gender-based violence.
Organizations such as Stand To End Rape (STER), the Mirabel Centre, and Women At Risk International Foundation (WARIF) are also working tirelessly to support survivors of sexual violence and advocate for policies that prevent gender-based violence.
As Nigeria moves forward in its efforts to eradicate gender-based violence, it is essential to recognize the importance of collective action. By working together, Nigeria can create a safer, more equitable society for women and girls.
