By Sharon Akuboh
The League of Women’s Voters of Nigeria (NILOWV) joins the entire globe to celebrate the International Human Rights Day, a day to reflect on the progress made towards achieving equality and justice for all. The President NILOWV, Irene Awunah – Ikyegh, said “we are honored to address us on this significant day, with a focus on the critical issue of gender-based violence against women in the political space”.
I am reminded of the powerful words of the United Nations Secretary-General, António Guterres, who stated, “Violence against women is a mark of shame on all our societies.” Indeed, gender-based violence is a pervasive issue that affects women and girls worldwide, including in Nigeria.
In Nigeria women’s participation in politics is crucial for promoting democracy and good governance. However, women in politics face numerous challenges, including gender-based violence, harassment, and intimidation. According to a report by the National Democratic Institute, 70% of women politicians in Nigeria have experienced some form of violence or harassment.
The statistics are alarming. In 2020, the Nigerian National Human Rights Commission reported that 43% of women in Nigeria had experienced physical or sexual violence. Furthermore, the World Health Organization estimates that one in three women worldwide will experience physical or sexual violence in their lifetime.
Despite these challenges, women in Nigeria are rising up to claim their rights and participate in the political process. The League of Women Voters of Nigeria (NILOWV) is proud to be at the forefront of this movement, empowering women to take leadership roles and promoting gender equality in all aspects of life.
As we celebrate International Human Rights Day today, we must recognize the critical role that women play in promoting peace, security, and development. We must also acknowledge the numerous barriers that women face in exercising their human rights, including gender-based violence.
The theme of this year’s International Human Rights Day is “Equality, Dignity, and Justice for All.” This theme resonates deeply with our mission at NILOWV, which is to empower women to participate fully in the democratic process and to promote gender equality in all aspects of life.
As we move forward, we must prioritize the safety and security of women in politics. We must create an environment that is conducive to women’s participation, free from violence, harassment, and intimidation.
To achieve this goal, we must work together governments, civil society organizations, legislators, traditional rulers religious leaders, the Private sector, elder States men and women and other individuals to promote gender equality and challenge discriminatory attitudes and practices.
At NILOWV, we are committed to empowering women to take leadership roles and promoting gender equality in all aspects of life. We will continue to work tirelessly to promote the rights of women and girls in Nigeria, and to create a society that is just, equitable, and free from violence.
As we celebrate International Human Rights Day today, let us recommit ourselves to the values of equality, dignity, and justice for all. Let us work together to create a world where women and girls can live free from violence, harassment, and intimidation.
In conclusion, I would like to leave you with a quote from the Nigerian poet and activist, Wole Soyinka, who said, “The greatest glory in living lies not in never falling, but in rising every time we fall.” Let us rise up together to promote the rights of women and girls in Nigeria, and to create a society that is just, equitable, and free from violence.