NewsNigeriaThree States Lead Fight Against Gender-Based Violence- Report

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Lagos, Rivers, and Ekiti states have been rated high in addressing Gender-Based Violence (GBV) and harmful practices against women and girls.

Bukky ShonibareExecutive Director of Invictus Africa, a civic organization focused on human rights and gender equality, said a significant increase from the 5,800 samples in 2023 based on a survey of 18,500 respondents.

According to her, the 2024 Womanity Index report, which was released in Abuja, aims to assess the progress made by subnational governments in preventing and responding to GBV while also promoting gender equality.

The report found that 34% of GBV survivors first sought help from family and relatives, followed by law enforcement.

It acknowledged Trust as a significant factor in seeking help, highlighting the need for improved trust in law enforcement and judicial systems.

“The index is based on five key areas: laws and policies, access to legal justice, support services for survivors, information and awareness, and budget allocation.

“The report reveals that 63% of Nigerians either have experienced GBV or know someone who has.

“The most prevalent forms of GBV include domestic violence or intimate partner violence, physical violence, mental or psychological abuse, and sexual violence. “More than 70% of GBV cases occur within homes, followed by public spaces like markets, schools, workplaces, and religious institutions,” Ms Shonibare said.

On her part, Prof. Olufolake AbdulrazaqChairperson of the Nigeria Governors’ Wives Forum (NIGWF), emphasized the importance of breaking the culture of silence around GBV.

She encouraged individuals to speak out against violence, seek law enforcement support, and advocate for greater representation of women in decision-making roles.

Also, Rev. Fr. George Ehusani of Lux Terra Leadership Foundation stressed that GBV is a barrier to national development and stressed the importance of creating awareness and strengthening legal and judicial systems to ensure justice for survivors.

Dr. Chichi AniagoluRegional Director of the Ford Foundation, underscored the role of data in tracking progress and identifying areas for improvement and emphasized that data-driven strategies are essential in monitoring and preventing GBV.

The goal is for every state to ensure a comprehensive, responsive, and supportive environment for victims of GBV and foster a safer, more equitable society for all.

Hassan Umar Shallpella (Regional Correspondent)

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