The Urgent Need for Effective Implementation of Gender-Based Violence Laws: A Call to Action from Ekiti State, Nigeria
The International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA), Ekiti State chapter, has issued a resounding call to action, urging governments at all levels to intensify efforts in ensuring the effective implementation of laws designed to combat gender-based violence (GBV). This appeal arises from the growing concern among women lawyers regarding the escalating incidents of GBV within the state. The Chairperson of FIDA Ekiti State, Ayobami Olowoyo-Richards, voiced these concerns during a two-day multi-stakeholder dialogue focused on the implementation and status of gender-sensitive legislation and frameworks for preventing violence against women and girls. The dialogue, organized by FIDA Nigeria in collaboration with the Ford Foundation, served as a platform for stakeholders to address the pressing issue of GBV and explore strategies for effective intervention.
While acknowledging the existence of laws enacted by the state government to prevent GBV, such as the Gender-Based Violence (Prohibition) Law 2019, Olowoyo-Richards emphasized the critical gap between legislation and implementation. She highlighted the ongoing efforts of FIDA to ensure the enforcement and implementation of these laws, collaborating with the Ministry of Justice, which is currently reviewing relevant legislation, including those pertaining to children’s rights and GBV. FIDA’s commitment to providing recommendations to address existing gaps and ensure proper implementation underscores the organization’s dedication to combating GBV.
Olowoyo-Richards also addressed the pervasive culture of silence surrounding GBV, advocating for the creation of dedicated gender units within relevant government agencies to facilitate reporting and support for victims. She emphasized the need for adequate funding for these units, recognizing that responding to GBV cases, including prosecution and security agency involvement, requires substantial financial resources. The call for an end to all forms of GBV, including rape and the molestation of minors, resonated throughout the dialogue. The urgency of this call was underscored by the numerous instances of violence witnessed in Ekiti State since the beginning of the year, prompting FIDA Nigeria to organize awareness programs and sensitize the public on GBV prevention.
The dialogue provided a platform for stakeholders to converge and forge a consensus on strategies to eradicate GBV in Ekiti State. Olowoyo-Richards encouraged victims to break the silence and report any form of GBV, whether domestic violence, assault, or emotional abuse. The collaborative effort of stakeholders, including government officials, traditional rulers, religious leaders, market leaders, and the media, demonstrates a collective commitment to addressing this pervasive issue.
Fiki Obaro, Senior Manager for Programmes, Partnerships, and Operations at FIDA Nigeria, highlighted the vulnerability of women due to the patriarchal nature of society. She echoed the challenges of enforcing GBV laws in Nigeria, emphasizing the implementation gap despite the existence of numerous laws and policies. The lack of adequate funding for GBV-related services was identified as a major impediment to effective enforcement. Obaro emphasized FIDA’s role in advocating for increased financial support and programs to address these challenges, while also informing the government about implementation gaps.
The multi-stakeholder dialogue served as a crucial step towards addressing the complex issue of GBV in Ekiti State. The collaborative approach, involving diverse stakeholders, signifies a collective commitment to tackling this pervasive problem. The call for strengthened implementation of existing laws, increased funding for support services, and an end to the culture of silence surrounding GBV underscores the urgent need for action. The insights and recommendations shared during the dialogue provide a roadmap for future interventions, aiming to create a safer and more equitable environment for women and girls in Ekiti State. The commitment of FIDA, government agencies, and community leaders to ongoing collaboration and advocacy offers hope for meaningful progress in the fight against gender-based violence.
