The Women’s Optimum Development Foundation highlighted on Saturday that the prevailing economic challenges in the nation are contributing to the surge in sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV).
The foundation emphasized that the aftermath of the 2020 COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in some men losing their ‘breadwinner’ status, exacerbating the issue.
During an event organized by the Wole Soyinka Centre on the theme ‘Activism against Gender-Based Violence,’ Olufunke Oduwole, the chairperson of the International Foundation of Women Lawyers Nigeria, Lagos-Epe Zone, expressed concerns about the economic hardships affecting relationships and marriages, leading to increased violence.
Oduwole highlighted the cultural expectation in African families where men are traditionally seen as providers, but economic difficulties have diminished this role, contributing to domestic violence.
She stressed the psychological impact preceding physical violence and encouraged victims to reach out to the Foundation for help, emphasizing the need for responsible media reporting on GBV incidents.
Oduwole called for a national emergency declaration on GBV due to the alarming levels it has reached in the country.
Dr. Godwin Morka, a consultant on human trafficking, migration, and policy development, attributed the pressure on men to economic hardship and linked sexual violence and trafficking to parents luring their daughters into prostitution.
Morka also highlighted the influence of Nollywood movies on shaping beliefs, emphasizing the need for parents, religious leaders, and stakeholders to play essential roles in combating societal issues.
He called for increased awareness at the grassroots level to address SGBV, advocating for a heightened awareness campaign to combat the issue effectively.
