In a powerful address at the 1st Gender and Social Norms Summit, First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu has called for the adoption and enforcement of stricter laws and harsher penalties for perpetrators of rape, sexual abuse, and other forms of gender-based violence (GBV).
The summit, organized by the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) in collaboration with her office, provided a platform for stakeholders, including Wives of State Governors, to discuss strategies for combating GBV and promoting gender equality.
Senator Tinubu emphasized the urgent need for state-specific action plans and adequate budget allocations to support gender equality initiatives. She condemned the rising incidence of rape and GBV, stressing the importance of both firm legislation and effective enforcement.
“Every day, we hear disturbing reports of rape and violence,” said the First Lady. “We cannot continue to ignore this crisis. It is imperative that law enforcement agencies, the Inspector General of Police, and other relevant authorities implement and enforce stricter laws to ensure that offenders face appropriate consequences.”
Ministers of Education, Justice, Women Affairs, and Youth echoed her call for heightened awareness and tougher measures against GBV. They highlighted the role of education, youth development, and women empowerment in reducing and potentially eradicating these harmful practices.
Karima Bungudu, UNFPA Gender/FGM Analyst, presented alarming statistics showing that nearly one in three Nigerian women has experienced some form of GBV. She noted that women with disabilities are particularly vulnerable and that harmful practices such as Female Genital Mutilation and child marriage remain unacceptably prevalent.
The summit concluded with the signing of a Compact of Commitment by Senator Tinubu and the Wives of State Governors, reaffirming their dedication to ending GBV and related harmful practices in their states.
