CALABAR – The Cross River State Ministry of Women Affairs, MoWA and Its Partners has made a clarion call for collective action to combat gender-based violence (GBV) in the state which she said has eaten deep into the fabrics of daily activities of even the common man on the street.
Speaking in a press conference held to mark the commencement of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence in Cross River State, The Commissioner for Women Affairs, Hon. Mrs Edama Irom, emphasized the importance of unity among all stakeholders in addressing the pervasive issue of violence against women and girls in Cross River State and beyond. "Rape, rooted in patriarchal beliefs and the misuse of power and control, perpetuates a societal environment where sexual violence thrives," she stated. She expressed alarm over rising cases of physical, emotional, economic, and political violence in the state, noting that women often face significant barriers in politics, including limited opportunities for elective and appointive positions.
Reflecting on the just-concluded local government elections, Hon. Irom enumerated the strides made by the Cross River State Women Lobby Group, supported by the Ministry of Women Affairs. Despite their efforts, only three women were elected as council chairpersons across the 18 local government areas, with another seven serving as vice-chairpersons. She lamented the exclusion of women from key municipal offices in several local governments and called on the government to adopt a gender-sensitive approach in making appointments.
Raising Awareness on GBV and Its Impact
Hon. Irom underlined the significance of the 16 Days of Activism in creating awareness about GBV and its devastating effects on communities. "Nearly one in every three women experiences violence in her lifetime, and one in every four adolescent girls also faces such violations," she said. She stressed the need for public education to challenge societal attitudes that normalize violence, including cultural practices that silence survivors and shield perpetrators.
Hon. Irom also emphasized the importance of legislative advocacy, calling for the passage of the Equal Opportunity Bill to ensure greater representation of women in leadership roles. "When women have a seat at the table, it becomes easier to push for laws and policies that protect their rights," she said.
Focus on Boys and Broader Social Issues
Acknowledging the importance of raising boys alongside girls with equal attention, Hon. Irom shared the state's milestone in officially celebrating the Day of the Boy Child for the first time in Nigeria. "This initiative, she said was an eye opener to the challenges boys face, including cultism and peer pressure.
She warned against ignoring issues such as the rise in cultism and unhealthy social behaviors among boys, which indirectly affect the safety and progress of girls. "You cannot raise a strong daughter without raising responsible boys who will stand alongside her," she said.
Call to Action
Hon. Irom called on governments, organizations, and citizens to speak out against GBV. "There is no excuse for sexual and gender-based violence. All hands must be on deck to prevent it," she urged, calling for a shift in societal attitudes and increased investments in community-based interventions.
The Commissioner reiterated the Ministry's commitment to fostering a safer, more equitable Cross River State, where the rights of women, girls, and boys are equally protected and celebrated.
The global campaign, observed annually from November 25th to December 10th, is themed for 2024 as "Unite, Invest to End Violence Against Women and Girls."
