Janet Ogundepo
A Women’s Rights Advocate, Josephine Christopher, has said that to address Gender-Based Violence in the county effectively, there was an urgent need to drive positive social and behavioural change that challenged harmful gender norms and promoted women’s inclusion in the decision-making process.
She decried the rising cases of GBV in the country, stating that it was pervasive and deeply entrenched across ethnic, religious and socio-economic divides.
In an exclusive interview with PUNCH Healthwise, the advocate further noted that the lack of implementation of the existing laws, such as the Violence Against Persons Prohibition law, posed a challenge in tackling GBV.
To raise global awareness, advocate policy changes and take action to eliminate gender-based violence, the United Nations launched the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence.
The annual international campaign begins on November 25, which is the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, and ends on December 10 (Human Rights Day).
According to the UN, violence against women and girls remained one of the most prevalent and pervasive human rights violations worldwide.
It adds that about 736 million women globally have experienced physical and or sexual violence.
UN reports that one in three women have been subjected to physical and or sexual intimate partner violence, non-partner sexual violence or both at least once in their life.
The United Nations sexual and reproductive health agency, UNFPA, states that the insecurity situation in Nigeria was increasing the incidence of GBV.
Meanwhile, the Federal Ministry of Women Affairs reports that Nigeria recorded 27,698 cases of sexual and GBV between 2020 and 2023.
Speaking on the high incidence of GBV in the country, Giwa said, “Gender-based violence remains a pervasive and deeply entrenched issue in Nigeria, cutting across ethnic, religious, and socio-economic divides. Addressing this crisis requires a multifaceted, collaborative approach involving individuals, communities, and institutions.
“One of the most significant challenges in tackling GBV is the gap in the legal environment, particularly the implementation of existing laws.
“While the Violence Against Persons Prohibition law offers provisions for the protection and response to GBV cases, its implementation remains hampered by cultural, religious, and patriarchal beliefs that perpetuate gender inequality.”
While proffering solutions to the issue, the women’s rights advocate asserted, “To effectively address GBV, a grassroots approach is essential. Beyond policy reforms, there is an urgent need to drive positive social and behavioural change that challenges harmful gender norms and promotes women’s inclusion in decision-making processes.
“When society recognises that women, just like their male counterparts, have equal rights, respect for women as individuals will increase. This shift requires strategic education initiatives that promote gender equality and challenge harmful cultural practices.
“Public awareness campaigns must work to dismantle the norms that perpetuate violence, while integrating GBV education into school curricula will help younger generations recognize and reject abusive behaviours, fostering a culture of respect and equality from an early age.”
She further emphasised that the GBV situation was dire, especially among Internally Displaced Persons.
Giwa advocated a united front and commitment from all sectors of society to end GBV in the country.
“Reports show alarmingly high levels of GBV in these areas, and security agencies must prioritise the establishment of effective response systems. GBV is not only a matter of immediate concern; its long-term consequences are profound, as it often creates a cycle of violence that transcends generations. Children exposed to GBV are at significant risk of mental health challenges and may perpetuate violent behaviours as they grow into adulthood.
“Breaking this cycle requires deliberate, strategic action. The fight against GBV in Nigeria demands a united front and sustained commitment from all sectors of society. By taking coordinated, proactive steps, we can create a safer and more equitable environment for all Nigerians, ensuring that the rights and dignity of every individual are upheld,” the women’s rights advocate asserted.
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