Kingibe Calls For Stronger Action Against Gender-Based Violence

The Senator representing the Federal Capital Territory, Ireti Kingibe, has called for stronger measures to tackle gender-based violence in Nigeria.

Senator Kingibe spoke in Abuja on Sunday during an event marking the global 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence.

Rights groups have expressed dissatisfaction that enough is not being done to contain gender-based violence, which they say remains a major concern.

They warn that cases of rape, domestic abuse, child defilement, and digital harassment are rising and call for concerted efforts to ensure laws are enacted and offenders prosecuted.

They stated that studies show many cases of gender-based violence go unreported due to fear of stigma, retaliation, and weak enforcement of laws such as the Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Act, which is not fully implemented in all states.

In light of this, Kingibe in her address urged Nigerian women to unite and demand greater inclusion in governance, noting that many still live in fear due to rising abuse.

“We, the women of Nigeria, must stand together,” she stated. She added, “We have to be strong to end gender-based violence, for women’s inclusion in governance and policy-making, to be part of the development of Nigeria.

“Nobody is going to wake us and say, ‘Come.’ We have to demand it. We have to show that we are up for it. Gender-based violence is one of those things that deters women.

“I know that even people like me are sometimes afraid. So I can imagine how younger, more vulnerable women feel. And it can only stop when we all insist that it stop.”

She added that women must play a central role in Nigeria’s political and development journey.

“So, my sisters, this is just one battle. We have several others. We achieve everything that we want to achieve. Women must be part of the journey and sit at the table,” she added.

Earlier, the Minister of Women Affairs, Hajia Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, highlighted the government’s focus on the welfare of women and children.

“There is no room for abuse in our families, communities, and society. For the first time in the history of Nigeria, we have a president who has prioritised the welfare and well-being of the citizens.

“We’re ready to do whatever it takes to ensure that we’re protected and to support the image of the Nigeria of our dreams, where everybody is protected,” she said.

The minister added that about 10 cases of sexual or gender-based violence are reported daily across the country, with minors accounting for eight out of every 10 incidents.