The FAME Foundation, a Civil Society Organization, CSO, raised concerns on Monday about the alarming rise in the killing of women across the country.
During a press conference in Abuja, Executive Director Aderonke Atoyebi highlighted that femicide is recognized globally as a violation of human rights. She cited United Nations reports indicating that over 89,000 women and girls were killed in 2022 and 2023 alone.
Atoyebi emphasized that many cases of violence against women and girls in Nigeria go unreported. She called on the government, civil society organizations, parents, religious institutions, traditional leaders, and all citizens to join forces in the fight against femicide.
She said: “A 2022 report alone, it was reported that at least 401 women died from sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV) in Nigeria.
“In Nigeria, femicide is often concealed due to societal stigma, fear of retaliation, or shame experienced by the victims’ families.
“Many cases go unreported, leaving families devastated and perpetuating a culture of silence.
“The imbalance of power between men and women fuels this violence, with men feeling entitled to control women, even if it means taking their lives.
“The situation is now critical, the FG says Nigeria records 27,698 SGBV cases in the last three years.
“Call to Action: We urge the government, civil society organizations, parents, religious bodies, traditional and community leader, and all citizens of Nigeria to unite in the fight against femicide.
“Silence is not an option while women and girls are brutally murdered – just like that.
“We call on the government to strengthen laws addressing femicide and ensure they are properly enforced.
“Media organizations must raise awareness and challenge the harmful social norms that perpetuate this violence, while communities need to remain vigilant, support victims, and hold perpetrators accountable.
“Men, in particular, should become allies in promoting gender equality and preventing gender-based violence.”
(Vanguard)
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