The International Federation of Women Lawyers has called on the government at all levels to intensify efforts in enforcing gender-based violence laws, as concerns grow over increasing cases of abuse in Ekiti State.
The Chairperson of FIDA Ekiti, Ayobami Olowoyo-Richards, made this appeal on Saturday in Ado Ekiti during a two-day Annual Multi-Stakeholders Dialogue on the Implementation of Gender-Sensitive Legislation.
The event, organized by FIDA Nigeria in partnership with the Ford Foundation, gathered key stakeholders to discuss strategies for tackling GBV.
“We know that there are many laws enacted by the state government to prevent gender-based violence in Ekiti State,” Olowoyo-Richards said.
“For instance, the Gender-Based Violence (Prohibition) Law 2019 is one of the laws we implement, but more needs to be done. We have the laws, but implementation remains a challenge.”
She noted that while FIDA continues to push for enforcement, the state’s Ministry of Justice is currently reviewing key laws related to GBV and children’s rights.
“We will collaborate with the Ministry of Justice and submit our recommendations to ensure that existing gaps are addressed and the laws are properly implemented,” she added.
Beyond legal enforcement, Olowoyo-Richards urged victims to break the culture of silence and report abuse. She also called for the establishment of gender units within government agencies to handle GBV cases effectively.
“The government should make efforts to fund gender units because responding to gender violence cases requires financial resources. Prosecuting GBV cases costs money, and security agencies also need funds to respond effectively,” she said.
She further emphasized the need for collective action in tackling all forms of GBV, including rape and child molestation.
“We have brought stakeholders together here to reach a consensus on how to eradicate GBV in Ekiti State. We urge individuals to speak out. Anyone experiencing any form of gender-based violence—whether domestic violence, assault, or emotional abuse—should always speak out,” she said.
The Senior Manager for Programmes, Partnerships, and Operations at FIDA Nigeria, Fiki Obaro, also highlighted the difficulties in enforcing GBV laws, particularly in a patriarchal society like Nigeria.
“There are numerous laws and policies in place, but implementation remains the issue. Funding is also a major factor affecting enforcement. The government has not adequately funded services related to GBV,” Obaro stated.
She emphasized the need for continued advocacy and government intervention, calling for increased financial support to improve GBV prevention and response programs.
The event was attended by representatives from the Ministries of Justice, Women Affairs, and Education, as well as traditional rulers, religious leaders, market leaders, and members of the media.
