Non-Governmental Organisation takes campaign against gender-based violence to rural communities

Precious Williams (Corper)

A Non-Governmental Organization, Center for Women’s Health and Information (CEWHIN) has taken fight against Gender-based violence to the grassroots, organizing summit for stakeholders, held at Orona hall, Ilaro town of Ogun State.

Penpushing reports that the theme of the town hall meeting is, ‘Our community, our Responsibility Working Together to Prevent Sexual Gender Based Violence’, which had in attendance number of traditional rulers, civil societies and religious leaders among others

The campaign, spearheaded by the Centre for Women’s Health and Information (CEWHIN) supported by Ford Foundation, and aimed to create positive effect across communities in Ogun State and beyond.

Penpushing further reports that it is equally to serve as a hub for resources and reporting, organizers hope to build a network of informed and empowered citizens working against gender-based violence.

The moderator at the well-attended meeting, Funmilayo Abdullahi called on stakeholders on need to always report cases of gender violence as well as sexual abuse of women and girls in communities.

“The main issue we’ve identified through our data is that religious and traditional leaders often cover up incidents of violence. When there’s a case of sexual or gender-based violence in the community, these leaders sometimes intervene to ‘settle’ matters internally, allowing perpetrators to escape consequences and likely reoffend”, she said

Penpushing also reports that Abdullahi, an associate member of Centre for Women’s Health and Information (CEWHIN), emphasized the critical role of religious and traditional leaders in addressing gender-based violence

“Many pastors and imams don’t maintain confidentiality when women report domestic issues. Some even mock these situations from the pulpit, which discourages victims from speaking up. We want prevention, not just intervention after harm has occurred’, she added

Penpushing reports that the representative of the Federation of Muslim Women Associations in Nigeria, Alhaja Adegbite disclosed that the association is in forefront of advocating on equality and equity in the society

“Our organization has always advocated for a society built on equality and equity, where abuse and maltreatment have no place. We conduct programs at local, state, and national levels to address these issues.”, Adegbite stated

Penpushing further reports that she identified poverty as a major contributing factor to violence, pointing out that if a child, mother and father are not empower, there will be many problems, stressing if a woman is confined at home all day, it creates conditions for abuse

‘If you don’t empower your child, your wife, or your husband, many problems will arise. When a woman is confined at home all day with no resources, it creates conditions for abuse’, Adegbite added

Penpushing also reports that Pastor Abraham A. Alade representing Christians Association of Nigeria (CAN) CAAN was discussing ways to reduce gender-based violence in society. He identified financial problems and economic situations as contributing factors. He also stated some potential solutions like the Economic empowerment programs, Education and awareness campaigns, Support systems for victims and Community engagement.

The representative of Coalition of Non-Governmental Organisations(NGO’s) , Ogun State Adesegun Adeshina highlighted the role of societal and religious factors in addressing gender-based issues.

Penpushing reports that he suggested involving religious leaders, national leaders, and promoting a balanced approach to tackle these problems, and stressed raising awareness through community engagement,

The human rights activist  encouraged leaders to take responsibility, supporting victims and promoting their rights, and equally emphasized the need for collective action and accountability.

The Non-Governmental Organisations representative spoke on the importance of education and awareness, particularly through religious leaders, to address issues affecting women and girls.

Penpushing reports that he equally highlighted the need for people with disabilities to know their rights and be empowered, particularly having education and orientation on rights and responsibilities,

The Vice Chairman of National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN) Ogun State Council Comrade Adenike Kafilat in her contributions stressed the importance of awareness and advocacy before violence occur.

“We must not wait until violence erupts. Our communities should be alarm systems, alerting us early to social vices and intervening before they escalate’, the National Council of Nigeria Vice Chairman said

Penpushing further reports that a respected leader at Community Development Council (CDC) Dr Adeyemi, emphasized the foundational role of love and education within the household.

“Love is the basic household need,” she said. “Families must commit to teaching their children monthly—not just academics, but values that foster respect and empathy’, Adeyemi emphasized

Penpushing also reports that a community Chief an Ilaro Chief, Babatunde Yinusa, urged citizens to report abuse and act within the bounds of the law, warning that silence is complicity, adding that victims must be empower to speak.

Meanwhile, the event underscored the importance of intergenerational dialogue, with elders and youth working hand-in-hand to dismantle the structures that perpetuate gender violence.

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