By Danjuma Attah, Gombe
Many hidden pathetic stories depicting how victims continue to suffer as a result of different forms of gender based violence came to limelight during a roundtable discussion as part of activities commemorating 16 days of activism against gender based violence in Gombe State.
Participants during the discussion believe that there are uncountable number of such violations particularly, rape and sexual abuse incidents involving girls and in some cases, boys which had gradually become a norm to these victims.
Some stories revealed during the discussion, depicted how it has almost become a way of life, a situation where small school age girls sent on hawking are being lured and sexually violated continuously by adults old enough to be their grandparents in many of the communities in the State.
The discussants lamented such true life stories and many untold ones happening in many parts of the State. In some instances, threats to life are issued by perpetrators or other family members to protect the family name which allows the perpetrators to continue with their devilish lifestyles.
Stakeholders that participated in the discussion have therefore called for enhanced support for survivors, policy reforms and increased awareness to address the negative growing trend.
This year’s event which was themed: “towards Beijing+30: unite to end violence against women and girls”, was organised by the USAID Nigeria State Accountability, Transparency and Effectiveness (State2State) and held at Emerald Hotel, Gombe.
The participants in the discussion who include, traditional rulers, civil society organisations (CSO’s), faith based groups, Government officials among many others, emphasized the need to break the culture of silence by exposing perpetrators and strengthening mechanisms for survivors.
Chabiyada Eli, Gender and Social Inclusion Coordinator of State2State, during her presentation pointed out that violence against women and girls continue to impede equality, development and peace.
According to her, one in every three women experience violence, a statistic that has refused to change over the years. “This persistent issue has continue to hinder the participation of women and girls at all levels of governance”, she lamented.
Eli called on Government, CSO’s, private sector stakeholders and influencers to intensify efforts towards eliminating GBV. She also stressed the need for collective action to build a safer society.
Notable persons at the discussion included, the District Head of Kolmani in Akko LGA, Mohammed Magaji; Chairperson of NCWS, Hajiya Hauwa Saraki; ANGO Chairman, Idris Maigari Lawanti; Secretary of NAWAJ, Abigail Kolo, representatives from the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development, Health, Education, Budget and Economic Planning as well as Local Government and Community Development and many others.
They called for reviving referral pathways to provide safe spaces for survivors and establishment of gender desks offices across ministries to improve institutional responses to GBV.
They also pledged their commitment towards creating awareness, pushing for systematic change and ensuring that survivors receive the care they deserve.
16 Days of Activism campaign was initiated in 1991 by the United Nations in collaboration with Feminist Movement to end all forms of violence against women and girls.
