The alarming prevalence of gender-based violence (GBV) in Gombe State, Nigeria, has prompted Asma’u Yahaya, the wife of the state governor, to spearhead a collaborative campaign to combat the scourge. Recognizing the critical need for community involvement, Yahaya, represented by Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Asma’u Iganus, has embarked on a series of engagements with local government officials, traditional leaders, and community members to raise awareness and encourage the enforcement of existing protective laws, including the Child Protection Law and the Violence Against Prohibition Act. Yahaya’s campaign underscores the urgency of the situation, highlighting Gombe’s disturbingly high national ranking in GBV cases. Her efforts focus on empowering individuals to report incidents and assuring them of support services, including free medical and legal assistance.
Yahaya’s outreach efforts emphasize the importance of grassroots mobilization in tackling GBV. She has met with wives of elected officials and community leaders, urging them to leverage their positions to sensitize residents to the dangers of GBV. Visits to various local government areas (LGAs) have allowed Yahaya to directly address community members, emphasizing the available resources and support systems for victims. These interactions are designed to foster a culture of reporting and ensure that victims feel safe and empowered to seek justice. The campaign seeks to break the silence surrounding GBV, encouraging victims and their families to come forward without fear of stigma or reprisal.
The response from local leaders and community members has been largely positive, with many expressing their commitment to supporting the campaign. Local government chairmen, recognizing the gravity of the situation, have pledged to work with Yahaya to address GBV in their respective areas. Traditional leaders, influential figures in their communities, have also pledged their support, directing district heads and community leaders to take decisive action against perpetrators. This collaborative approach, involving government officials, traditional authorities, and community members, is crucial to effectively combating GBV and creating a safer environment for women and girls.
The campaign also highlights the specific challenges encountered in addressing GBV in Gombe State. One significant obstacle is the reluctance of victims and their families to report incidents, often due to shame, stigma, and fear of reprisal. Healthcare workers have noted the underreporting of GBV cases, emphasizing the need to create a safe and supportive environment for victims to come forward. Addressing this challenge requires building trust within communities and assuring victims of confidentiality and support throughout the reporting and legal processes. The campaign aims to dismantle the culture of silence that perpetuates GBV and empower victims to seek justice.
To overcome the fear and stigma associated with reporting, the campaign is promoting accessible reporting mechanisms. Desk officers with dedicated telephone numbers are being established to facilitate communication and provide support to victims. These confidential channels are designed to encourage reporting and ensure that victims can access assistance without fear of exposure or judgment. The campaign also emphasizes the provision of secured spaces for victims, ensuring their safety and privacy while they receive support and pursue legal recourse. By creating accessible and confidential reporting mechanisms, the campaign seeks to build trust and encourage victims to break their silence.
The Emir of Nafada, Alhaji Hamza Dadum, has taken a strong stance against GBV, directing district heads and community leaders to establish committees to sensitize residents, monitor cases, and facilitate prompt action. This directive underscores the traditional leadership’s commitment to combating GBV and holding perpetrators accountable. The Emir’s emphasis on community involvement and zero tolerance reinforces the importance of collective action in addressing the issue. By engaging traditional leaders and community structures, the campaign aims to shift societal norms and create a culture of intolerance towards violence against women and girls. The ultimate goal is to create a safe and supportive environment where all individuals can thrive without fear of violence or discrimination. The continued engagement of community leaders, government officials, and residents is crucial to ensuring the long-term success of these efforts and creating lasting change.
