Enugu State Government, in collaboration with a coalition of Civil Society Organizations (CSOs), has once again pledged its commitment to eradicating all forms of Gender Based Violence (GBV) in the state. The CSOs, namely the African Law Foundation (AFRILAW) and the New-Life Community Care Initiative (NELCCI), made this resolute declaration during their advocacy visit to the Enugu State Commissioner for Children, Gender Affairs and Social Development, Mrs Ngozi Enih, over the weekend.
The visit, undertaken as part of the CSOs’ activities for the 16 days of activism campaign against Gender Based Violence, involved representatives from over twenty CSOs in Enugu. This global event, endorsed by the United Nations, commences on November 25th and culminates on December 10th each year.
Chinwuike Okereke, the Executive Director of AFRILAW, highlighted the significance of this event, which is being celebrated for the first time in Enugu State. He stated, “We deemed it fitting to collaborate with the ministry to ensure its success. We have planned numerous activities, such as the ‘acting meetings’ where we share messages on social media to raise awareness about the urgency of ending violence against women and girls. Our theme for this year is ‘Unite, invest to prevent violence against women and girls’.”
One crucial aspect of their collaboration with the Enugu State Government is the ‘State Finance on Gender Based Violence’ initiative. Through this partnership, both parties aim to discuss and advocate for government support in terms of budgetary allocation, programs, and projects that prioritize the eradication of GBV. Additionally, the CSOs seek the commitment of local government chairmen in allocating resources to prevent GBV within their respective areas.
Furthermore, the CSOs plan to organize a men’s conference, inviting men and boys from different walks of life across the state. The conference will serve as a platform to sensitize and engage males in dialogues centered around ending GBV.
Dr. Kobi Ikpo, the State Focal Person for Agents for Citizens Driven Transformation (ACT), emphasized the significance of including men in this initiative. She addressed the issue of men being the highest perpetrators of GBV and expressed the need to address toxic masculinity while promoting healthier and more positive forms of masculinity.
In response to the advocacy visit, Commissioner Mrs. Enih expressed her gratitude, acknowledging the timeliness of the intervention. She stated that the visit aligned perfectly with her mandate and Governor Peter Mbah’s commitment to fostering peace and harmony in every home in Enugu State. Mrs. Enih also expressed her enthusiasm for the men’s conference, believing that engaging with young boys will help them realize the repercussions of violence since many grew up in abusive households where such behavior was normalized.
Florence Ifeanyi Aneke, the Executive Director of NELCCI, expressed her satisfaction with the outcome of the partnership visit. She urged members of the public to collaborate with the CSOs and the Enugu State government in their mission to eliminate Gender Based Violence against women and girls in the state.
With this renewed partnership between Enugu State Government and CSOs, there is hope for a future where gender equality and a life free of violence becomes a reality for all residents of Enugu. Through collaborative efforts, awareness campaigns, and meaningful engagement, society can take significant strides towards eradicating Gender Based Violence and creating a safer and more inclusive environment for everyone.
