GBV: Silence, major factor that hinders success of campaign against elimination – Activists

The Executive Director, Challenged Parenthood Initiative, (CPI), Eunice Agbogun has described silence as the major factor that hinders the success of the campaign against the elimination of Gender Based Violence (GBV) in Kogi State.

Speaking during a sensitisation walk held on Monday in commemoration of 16 days of Activism to end Gender Based Violence in Lokoja which was organised by Kogi Women Constituency Lead, Agbogun observed that victims not speaking would continue to be a set back to the elimination of Gender Based Violence.

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The Spokesperson of the Women Constituency Lead in Kogi State pointed out that many women and girls are dying in silence despite suffering from all forms of violence in the state. She stressed the need for aggressive awareness for survivors of Gender Based Violence to open up on this societal menace, adding that it is a collective responsibility for Nigerians to combat this pervasive issue.

Agbogun noted that eradicating Gender Based Violence requires strategic, targeted, and adequately funded interventions from Multi sectoral approach, as she opined that a designated court will give speedy actions to cases of Gender Based Violence in Kogi State.

“A coasted action plan provides a roadmap, allocating resources where the impact would be felt most. 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 multi sectoral coasted 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 said.

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

Represented by the Kogi State Coordinator of NHRC, 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.

He said: “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.”

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Also, the Kogi State Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, 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.