Stakeholders in Nigeria are expressing deep concern over the persistent increase in cases of Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV) in the country. Despite the efforts of rights activists, civil society organizations, and international bodies, SGBV remains a pressing issue affecting Nigerian society.
The forms of SGBV range from female genital mutilation and child marriage to sexual assault and physical abuse. These horrifying acts leave victims traumatized, often preventing them from speaking out due to fear.
Compounding the problem are harmful cultural practices, particularly female genital mutilation and child marriages, which contribute to the perpetuation of SGBV in Nigeria.
Alarming Statistics
A survey conducted in 2019 by the Nigerian National Bureau of Statistics revealed that 30 percent of Nigerian women aged between 15 and 49 have experienced physical violence, while a shocking 68 percent have been subjected to emotional, economic, and sexual abuse.
In the second quarter of 2023 alone, the Lagos State Police Command recorded 111 cases of SGBV, including 14 cases of rape and 56 cases of domestic violence. The police have already charged 99 suspects to court, with 83 cases currently under investigation.
Efforts to Tackle SGBV
Recognizing the gravity of this issue, the Lagos State Police Command has taken steps to tackle gender-based violence. The command has remodeled its gender unit and increased the number of officers trained to handle SGBV cases. The Lagos State Commissioner of Police, Idowu Owohunwa, has affirmed his commitment to dealing decisively with perpetrators of gender-based violence.
The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has also shown its support for the fight against SGBV in Nigeria. The Deputy Representative of Programmes, Rownak Khan, recently visited the Minister of Women Affairs, Uju Kennedy-Ohanenye, to discuss the measures being taken to address SGBV.
The Lux Terra Foundation, a non-governmental organization, is actively involved in the campaign against SGBV. Working in collaboration with the Christian community in Lagos and Ogun States, the foundation aims to raise awareness and find solutions to this pressing issue.
Root Causes and Society’s Role
Multiple factors contribute to the prevalence of SGBV in Nigerian society. Deeply ingrained gender stereotypes, male superiority norms, and expectations placed on women all contribute to creating an environment where violence against women is often considered acceptable.
Traditional practices and beliefs also play a significant role in perpetuating violence against women. Addressing and challenging these harmful ideologies is crucial in eliminating SGBV.
Empowering Women and Education
To combat gender-based violence effectively, it is essential to empower women and educate society about the rights of women and girls. Parents should educate their children about these rights from an early age.
It is time for women to stand up against any form of violence and oppression. All forms of SGBV must be strongly condemned, and the silence surrounding these issues must be broken. Only through collective action and education can Nigerian society truly eradicate gender-based violence.
