Violence against women NHRC partners journalists to tackle abuse

The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has partnered with the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Kaduna State Chapter to combat violence against women. During a courtesy visit to the Kaduna NUJ Secretariat, NHRC Principal Investigative Officer Murjana Tsoho Abdullahi emphasized the need for collaborative efforts to address the rising trend of online blackmail, extortion, and image-based abuse.

Abdullahi highlighted a disturbing case of a nurse who was blackmailed for over two years by an individual threatening to post her private pictures online. The victim was forced to surrender her salary periodically, illustrating the devastating impact of digital violence. The NHRC officer noted that such abuse can lead to stigma, depression, and even suicide, emphasizing that no one should endure such trauma.

The NHRC offers free services, including investigation, counseling, and referrals to law enforcement agencies like the police. Abdullahi urged victims to break their silence and report violations without fear, assuring that the NHRC documents and pursues cases to ensure justice. She also stressed the importance of parental vigilance and education for young girls on the safe use of digital devices to prevent exploitation.

The partnership between the NHRC and NUJ aims to raise awareness about the issue and encourage the media to play a crucial role in tackling the menace. The NHRC is committed to providing support to victims of digital violence, and the collaboration with the NUJ is a significant step towards creating a safer online environment for women. By working together, the organizations hope to reduce the incidence of online abuse and promote a culture of respect and dignity for all individuals. The NHRC’s efforts to address digital violence are part of its broader mandate to protect and promote human rights in Nigeria.