The Initiative for Research, Innovation, and Advocacy in Development (IRIAD) and the Electoral Hub have expressed concern that Gender Base Violence (GBV) remains a pressing challenge exacerbated by socio-economic factors, cultural norms, and ongoing conflicts and insecurity across the nation.
They raised these concerns in commemoration of the 16 days of activism against Gender-Based Violence.
The Director, IRIAD-the Electoral Hub, Princess Hamman-Obels, in a press release issued on Tuesday said over 27,000 reported cases of violence against women and girls (VAWG) between 2020 and 2024 highlights the urgent need for sustained advocacy and intervention to end this scourge against women and girls.
“For instance, the Salama Sexual Assault Referral Centre in Kaduna State reported nearly 3,977 cases of sexual and gender-based violence since its inception in 2019, while Lagos state documented over 24,009 cases across all local government areas between January 2019 and December 2023.
“While there is progress in legislative efforts such as the Violence Against Persons Prohibition (VAPP) Act enacted in 2015, with all states in Nigeria adopting/domesticating this law or having a similar law (e.g. Lagos and Ekiti States) as at 2024.
“The gap between policy and practice reveals the need for effective implementation and enforcement mechanisms. Additionally, traditional beliefs and stigmas surrounding victims often deter individuals from seeking help or reporting incidents.
“Cases of femicide have drawn national attention, emphasizing the urgent need for legal reforms and stronger protective measures for women. Issues such as terrorism, banditry, and farmer/herder crises in North West and Central Nigeria have also exacerbated GBV issues, with many women subjected to sexual violence by armed groups.
” Initiatives aimed at addressing GBV reflect a growing recognition of this issue; however, these efforts must translate into tangible support systems for survivors.
“As we observe this year’s 16 Days of Activism, we urge all relevant stakeholders to take decisive action as follows: Government: The government must take the lead in enforcing existing laws such as the VAPP Act across all states.
“It must ensure legal frameworks are robust enough to protect survivors while holding perpetrators accountable. Increased funding for GBV prevention programs is essential to create safe spaces for victims and provide necessary resources for support services.
“Civil society organizations play a crucial role in combating GBV through advocacy and community engagement. CSOs should collaborate with local communities to raise awareness about GBV and offer comprehensive support services for survivors.
“Implementing educational programs that challenge harmful cultural norms and promote gender equity is vital to fostering long-term change.
” Community leaders, including traditional rulers and religious figures, are essential in shaping societal attitudes towards GBV. We encourage them to engage actively within their communities to advocate against GBV and promote healthy relationships based on mutual respect
” The influence of leaders is vital in changing perceptions and behaviors that perpetuate violence against women,” she said.