Abuja: Prof. Patience Ukiri-Mudiare, a sociologist specializing in spousal violence, emphasizes that gender-based violence (GBV) can be effectively addressed through gender empowerment and robust institutional support. Ukiri-Mudiare, in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), highlighted that GBV leads to physical and psychological injuries, perpetuating unequal power dynamics between men and women.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Ukiri-Mudiare stressed the importance of collective action, stating, “The fight is not ours alone. We need both the men and women; we need both hands on deck to fight this battle.” She outlined several key actions required to combat GBV, including repealing discriminatory laws, taking decisive action against perpetrators, and establishing reporting mechanisms with an emergency contact number. This would empower even children to report instances of violence.
Ukiri-Mudiare also called for increased sensitivity and awareness, particularly among children, and emphasized the need for zero tolerance for violence against any gender or age group. She advocated for safe havens where survivors can receive counseling and legal assistance until they can regain stability.
She further elaborated that GBV manifests in various forms such as physical, emotional, economic abuse, and sexual exploitation, all of which have far-reaching impacts on health, social skills, self-esteem, productivity, and can even lead to suicidal ideation and dysfunctional families. To mitigate these effects, Ukiri-Mudiare recommended the empowerment of both genders, heightened community engagement, and the enforcement of the Violence against Persons Prohibition Act, 2015 (VAPP Law), alongside the establishment of strong institutions dedicated to combating GBV.