– By Mfon Jacott
Since the creation of Akwa Ibom State on 23rd September 1987 the administration of Governor Umo Eno has brought pragmatic response to the negative impact of gender based violence more than previous administrations. Research shows that gender-based violence is a salient pandemic, affecting many lives in Nigeria. This phenomenon disproportionately affects women, who continue to face violence due to their vulnerability in a society dominated by men.
In Akwa Ibom State, approximately 59 percent of women have experienced sexual and domestic violence, indicating a high prevalence of GBV. 80 cases of gender based violence was recorded in 2019, and 18 culprits prosecuted. Between January and November, 2023, Akwa Ibom State recorded 321 cases of gender based violence together with 120 rape cases. 170 out of the 321 cases were intimate partner violence, most of which led to physical injury on the victims.
The Akwa Ibom State First Lady, Pastor Mrs Patience Umo Eno since her first day into office in July 2023 has taken vital steps to addressing this issue, with the government placing convictions for offenders. Additionally, the Akwa Ibom State Sexual and Gender Based Violence (SGBV) management committee have been empowered make greater effort in reducing the alarming cases of GBV in the State, facilitated by the Violence Against Persons Prohibition (VAPP) law and the establishment of a response unit in the Ministry of Justice.
One remarkable achievement by the First Lady to guarantee sustainable development in regards to gender based violence has been her relentless advocacy for inclusion of woman in elective positions at grassroot administration in the State. This has lead to a 60:40 percentage ratio in the representation of women political leaders for the upcoming local government election in October 2024.
As emphasized by the United Nations in its sustainable development goal, “eliminating all forms of violence against all women and girls in the public and private spheres” is a crucial objective to achieve gender equality and empower all women and girls. Official statistics provide a clear picture of this global tragedy. One in three women worldwide experience physical or sexual violence affecting both women’s well-being and their participation in society and politics.
Moreover, more than 50% of homicides with female victims are perpetrated by intimate partners or other family members.
In euphoria of the Akwa Ibom State 37th anniversary celebration on 23rd September 2024, it is worthy to note the impactful contribution of the Akwa Ibom First Lady in empowering women leaders into political positions towards advancing the status of the State in the global community. The multiply effect of her gender advocacy role guarantees greater bilateral relationship with advanced nations of the world and implementation of gender based policy decisions that will directly reduce GBV cases to the bearest minimum in underdeveloped communities that has no information on GBV response units.
#breakthebias
#embraceequality
#akwaibomwomen
#genderequality
#ariseagenda
