Gender-Based Violence Pandemic in Nigeria. According to the daily post, about 111 cases of Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV) were recorded only in the second quarter of 2023, specifically between April and June in Lagos State alone. Police Command, through its spokesman, Benjamin Hundeyin, revealed. The prevalence of Gender-based violence (GBV) among tertiary institutions in Abuja, was found to be high, with 61.9% for physical abuse, 56.4% for psychological abuse, and 25.3% for sexual abuse. According to facts given by the United Nations (UN) Globally, 6 per cent of women report that they have been subjected to sexual violence from someone other than their husband or partner. However, the true prevalence of non-partner sexual violence is likely to be much higher, considering the stigma related to this form of violence. Fifteen million adolescent girls worldwide, aged 15–19 years, have experienced forced sex. In the vast majority of countries, adolescent girls are most at risk of forced sex (forced sexual intercourse or other sexual acts) by a current or former husband, partner, or boyfriend. Based on data from 30 countries, only 1 per cent have ever sought professional help. Gender-Based violence refers to any act of physical, sexual, emotional, or psychological violence directed at an individual because of their gender. It encompasses a wide range of behaviors, including domestic violence, sexual harassment, human trafficking, female genital mutilation (FGM), and child marriage, among others. GBV is deeply rooted in gender inequality, patriarchal norms, and societal tolerance of violence against women and girls. Gender-based violence (GBV) is a global issue that transcends borders, cultures, and socio-economic statuses. In Nigeria, this pervasive problem continues to inflict immense suffering on women and girls, eroding their rights and causing long-lasting physical and psychological scars. This article delves into the pressing issue of GBV in Nigeria, exploring its root causes, consequences, and highlighting notable events that have shed light on the urgency of addressing this crisis. Root Causes of GBV in Nigeria Cultural Norms: Nigeria’s diverse culture and traditions have, in some cases, perpetuated harmful gender stereotypes that legitimize violence against women. Harmful practices like Female genital Mutilation (FGM) and child marriage are deeply entrenched in certain communities. Socioeconomic Factors: Poverty, lack of education, and economic disparities contribute to the prevalence of GBV. Women who lack economic independence are often more vulnerable to abuse as they may have limited options for escaping abusive situations. Weak Legal Framework: Nigeria has laws in place to address GBV, such as the Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Act, but enforcement is often weak, and perpetrators frequently go unpunished. This lack of accountability perpetuates a culture of impunity. Examples of Gender-Based Violence in Nigeria Chibok Girls Abduction (2014): The abduction of over 200 schoolgirls from Chibok by the extremist group Boko Haram brought international attention to GBV in Nigeria. Many of these girls were subjected to sexual violence and forced marriages, highlighting the vulnerability of girls in conflict zones. Domestic Violence: Domestic violence is widespread in Nigeria, with numerous cases going unreported. The case of Ronke Shonde, who was allegedly killed by her husband in Lagos in 2016, garnered significant media attention, illustrating the deadly consequences of domestic abuse. Human Trafficking: Nigeria is a source, transit, and destination country for human trafficking. Women and girls are often lured into trafficking with promises of employment or education, only to be subjected to sexual exploitation and forced labor. Consequences of GBV The consequences of GBV are profound and far-reaching. Victims often suffer physical injuries, trauma, and long-term emotional distress. GBV also hinders women’s participation in the workforce, perpetuates poverty, and undermines social cohesion. Children who witness violence in their homes are more likely to become perpetrators or victims of violence in the future, perpetuating the cycle. Addressing GBV in Nigeria requires a multi-faceted approach: Legal Reforms: Strengthening the legal framework and ensuring the enforcement of existing laws is crucial. This includes holding perpetrators accountable and providing protection and support to survivors. Education and Awareness: Promoting gender equality through education and awareness campaigns can challenge harmful gender norms and stereotypes. Schools, communities, and the media can play a significant role in this effort. Support Services: Establishing comprehensive support services for survivors, including counseling, shelters, and medical care, is essential to aid their recovery and empower them to seek justice. Economic Empowerment: Providing economic opportunities and financial independence to women can reduce their vulnerability to GBV. Conclusion Gender-based violence is a grave crisis in Nigeria that continues to inflict suffering on countless women and girls. While some progress has been made, much work remains to be done to eradicate this deeply rooted problem. It is imperative that Nigeria, with the support of the international community, takes concrete steps to address the root causes of GBV, strengthen legal protections, and create a culture where violence against women and girls is not tolerated. Only then can Nigeria truly achieve gender equality and protect the rights and dignity of all its citizens. 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(2018) Gender-based violence and trauma in marginalized populations of women: Role of biological embedding and toxic stress, Health care for women international. Available at: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6428086/. Violence against women and girls is one of the world’s most prevalent human rights violations, taking place every day, many times over, in every corner of the globe. it has serious short- and long-term physical, economic and psychological consequences on women and girls, preventing their full and equal participation in society. (2023) UN Women – Headquarters. Available at: https://www.unwomen.org/en/what-we-do/ending-violence-against-women/faqs/types-of-violence. World Bank Group (2023) Gender-based violence (violence against women and girls), World Bank. Available at: https://www.worldbank.org/en/topic/socialsustainability/brief/violence-against-women-and-girls.
