The Commissioner for Women Affairs in Cross River State, Mrs. Edema Irom, revealed on Saturday that the state recorded a staggering 586 cases of gender-based violence (GBV) between January and October of this year.
Speaking at a news conference held in Calabar to kick-start 16 days of activism against GBV, Mrs. Irom emphasized that this figure represented only officially reported cases to the government.
To combat this deeply concerning issue, the Women Affairs Ministry is taking proactive measures by establishing structures in collaboration with Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) across the state.
The aim is to report GBV cases in real-time, thus addressing the menace more effectively.
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Mrs. Irom explained, “We have a Technical Working Group with members drawn from the ministry and from the NGOs to find a way around the issue. The TWG meets quarterly to review efforts put in place to address the issue.”
The 16 days of activism, running from November 25 to December 10, are dedicated to raising awareness about gender-based violence and honoring those who have fought against it.
This annual event holds global significance and was initiated by the United Nations to commemorate the brutal murder of 16 women from the Dominican Republic.
These women were killed for their activism against gender-based violence.
Mrs. Irom highlighted the broader context of the 16 days, noting its connection to the World Day for HIV prevention on December 1, the International Day for Persons with Disability on December 3, and the International Human Rights Day on December 10.
In his remarks, Mr. Remi Ajuga of the National Human Rights Commission emphasized that gender-based violence is a significant issue for the commission.
He expressed optimism that the activism, which began on Saturday, marks the commencement of a journey to end the menace and promote a safer environment for women and girls.
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