Silence, Major Setback in the War against Violence, Gender Issues in Kogi

Ibrahim Oyewale in Lokoja

As part of activities marking the 16 days of Activism for the elimination of Gender Based Violence (GBV), stakeholders have identified continuous silence by survivors as one of the major factor hindering the success of the campaign in Kogi State.

In a sensitisation walk held in Lokoja yesterday in commemoration of 16 days of Activism to end Gender Based Violence in Kogi State, which was organised by Kogi Women Constituency Lead, spokesperson of the group, Ms. Eunice Abimbola Agbogun, posited that many women and girls are dying in silence despites suffering from all forms of violence in the state.

Agbogun, who is the executive director of Challenged Parenthood Initiative, (CPI) posited that, there is need for aggressive awareness on the need for survivors of Gender Based Violence to open up on this societal menace, stressing that it is a collective responsibility for Nigerians to combat this pervasive issue.

While noting that eradicating gender based violence requires strategic, targeted, and adequately funded interventions from Multi sectoral approach, Agbogun opined that a designated court would give speedy actions to cases of Gender Based Violence (GBV) in Kogi State.

“Accosted action plan provides a roadmap, allocating resources where they are most impactful. It encompasses prevention, protection, and support mechanisms, ensuring a holistic approach to address the root causes and consequences of gender-based violence.

“The toll of gender-based violence on individuals, families, and societies is immeasurable, affecting mental, physical, and economic well-being. By committing resources to this cause, we invest in a safer, more just world for all.

“As the Women Constituency Lead in Partnership with other CSOs and various government agencies embark on these year 16 Days of Activism, let us unite in our resolve to turn the tide against gender-based violence.

“Together, let us advocate for the a multi sectoral costed action plan for effective implementation of the Violence Against Persons Prohibition (VAPP) Law and a  designated court that not only speaks to our aspirations but also ensures a future where every person can live free from fear, violence, and discrimination,” she stated.

In his remarks, the Executive Secretary and Chief Executive Officer of National Human Rights Commission, (NHRC) Dr. Tony Ojukwu, disclosed that the  commission is resolute in its commitment to address critical issues affecting the rights of women and girls.

Represented at the occasion by the Kogi State Coordinator of NHRC, Mr. Nuhu Musa Mohammed, he noted that the day serves as a poignant reminder of the pressing need to confront and alleviate the multifaceted challenges faced by women and girls and by extension the society.

Explaining the importance of the day, Mohammed said: “The theme for the 2023 16 days of Activism is “Invest to Prevent Violence against Women and Girls. The theme focuses on the importance of financing different prevention strategies to end violence against women and girls.

“It is an unequivocal truth that a society that invests in the wellbeing, progress and independence of women reaps immeasurable benefits. Our efforts towards fostering  an environment that champions and priorities the  Rights of women to Reproductive health, education and economic empowerment will lay a foundation for a more equitable and violence free society which empowers women to make informed decisions and choices that benefits them and promote their well-being and rights.

“This year’s theme urges us to reflect deeply on the various prevention strategies needed to halt violence at its roots. It prompts us to channel our efforts into initiatives that safeguard the rights and dignity of every woman and girl.

“As we celebrate this year’s 16 days of activism the commission calls for the Ratification of the Maputo protocol which has very laudable provisions for protection of the rights of women.”

He, however, called concerted efforts by the security agencies especially the Nigerian Armed Forces to rescue women and girls who are in captivity of insurgents and bandits.

Also speaking, the Country Vice President/National President, International Federation of Women Lawyers, (FIDA) Nigeria, Ms. Amina Agbaje described GBV as global problem that requires concerted global action.

According to her, there is need for all stakeholders to join hand to build a safe and more inclusive world for women and girls.

Represented by the Kogi State Chairperson of FIDA, Ms. Lilian Okolo, she said: “FIDA Nigeria remains steadfast in it’s commitment to prevent violence against Women and Girls and calls on the Government, private sector, Civil Society Organisations, media and indeed all stakeholders to amplify their commitments and investment to improved laws and violence preventions.”

Meanwhile, the Kogi State Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Ms. Fatima Kabir Buba, who was represented by the ministry’s Permanent Secretary Stella-Maris Andy lamented that it was very worrisome that the Nigeria Demographic and Health Survey, (NDHS) 2018 report found out that, nine percent of Women aged 15 and 49 had suffered assault at least once in their life time and 31 percent had experienced physical violence