Calls for stronger action against gender-based violence (GBV) in Nigeria have intensified, with stakeholders urging law enforcement agencies to ensure that perpetrators are held accountable and victims receive justice.
The demand gained attention during a solidarity march in Abuja organised by UN Women in partnership with the National Assembly as part of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence in November 2024.
Participants, including policymakers, activists and civil society organisations, marched to the Nigeria Police Force Headquarters, calling for decisive action against rape, sexual harassment, child abuse, domestic violence and other forms of gender-related abuse.
Chairperson of the House of Representatives Committee on Women Affairs, Kafilat Ogbara, stressed the need for stronger legislative measures and sustained efforts to protect women and girls.
She also called on the Inspector-General of Police to ensure that reports of gender-based violence are treated seriously and that victims receive justice.
Receiving the protesters’ petition, the then Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, reaffirmed the force’s commitment to tackling gender-based violence, emphasising that preventing abuse requires collective responsibility from law enforcement agencies, government institutions and society.
The campaign underscored the need for effective investigations, accountability and greater public awareness to confront the persistent problem.
Stakeholders maintain that ending gender-based violence requires more than public declarations; it demands consistent enforcement of the law, protection for survivors and action against offenders.
