By Ere-ebi Ageadh Imisi
The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), in partnership with the Rule of Law and Anti-Corruption (RoLAC) programme, has rolled out a series of nationwide activities to mark the “16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence” campaign, observed from November 25 to December 10, 2024.
Speaking at a press conference in Abuja, the NHRC Executive Secretary, Dr. Tony Ojukwu SAN, emphasized the importance of this year’s theme, “Equality – Reducing Inequality and Advancing Human Rights,” as a call to action for stakeholders to intensify efforts to address violence and discrimination against women and girls.
Dr. Ojukwu noted that the campaign aligns with the Commission’s mission to safeguard human dignity and ensure the protection of fundamental rights for all citizens.
Dr. Ojukwu explained that addressing gender-based violence requires collaboration from all sectors, including the media, human rights organizations, women’s groups, and security agencies.
He highlighted the enduring prevalence of gender-based violence in Nigeria, citing statistics from UN Women that reveal nearly one in three women experience violence in their lifetime, while one in four adolescent girls face abuse from intimate partners.
Responding to questions on violence against women with disabilities as regards their sexual and reproductive health, the ES assured that the National Human Rights Commission is committed to addressing their unique challenges by advocating for inclusive policies, enhancing access to justice, and collaborating with relevant stakeholders to ensure their rights are protected and upheld in line with national and international standards.
The 16 Days of Activism campaign serves as a global platform to amplify advocacy against violence, with a particular focus on sexual and gender-based violence. It culminates on December 10, International Human Rights Day, which Dr. Ojukwu described as a time to reflect on progress made and identify areas for improvement in the protection of human rights in Nigeria.
Since 2019, RoLAC, funded by the European Union and implemented by the International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance (International IDEA), has spearheaded impactful initiatives during the campaign. Achievements include the establishment of Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV) courts in Abuja in 2021 and the replication of Sexual Assault Referral Centres (SARCs) across Nigeria.
The nationwide campaign features a variety of activities aimed at fostering awareness and action. These include advocacy visits to state lawmakers, chief judges, religious and traditional leaders, and youth groups to address violations and advance legislative reforms. Other initiatives include roadshows, school outreach programs, dialogues with legal professionals, and sensitization efforts targeting health workers.
At the NHRC headquarters in Abuja, additional events include human rights debates and quiz competitions for schools, a human rights exhibition, civil society forums, legislative engagements, and a high-level forum on human rights and business. The campaign will conclude with a Human Rights Dinner and Awards ceremony on December 10.
Dr. Ojukwu reiterated the NHRC’s commitment to amplifying the voices of marginalized groups and fostering accountability. He urged Nigerians to actively participate in the campaign, noting that collective efforts are essential to addressing the inequalities that perpetuate gender-based violence and advancing human rights across the nation.