The Akwa Ibom State government has joined the global community in marking the 2024 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence (GBV) in the state.
Flagging off the campaign on Tuesday at Ibom Hall, Uyo, the Coordinator, Office of the First Lady, Akwa Ibom State, Mrs. Helen Eno Obareki, warned against human trafficking and all forms of GBV. She called on governments, individuals, and organizations to collaborate in the fight against the menace.
Obareki, represented by the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Welfare, Dr. Ini Adiakpan, described the 2024 theme, “Unite: To End Violence Against Women and Girls,” as apt, emphasizing that unity in combating GBV would have a far-reaching impact.
According to her, “The fight against GBV is a collective effort, and we must move as a group with one voice; men leading and speaking up to condemn GBV. The war against Gender-Based Violence is a war that must be fought and won. A tree, as we know, can never make a forest.
“The fight must extend to churches and communities. Parents should be mindful of how they send their daughters for counseling and monitor what their children watch on the internet.”
Also speaking, the Deputy Governor, Senator Akon Eyakenyi, represented by Dr. Ekaette Ebong Okon, Chairman of the State Secondary Education Board, stated that combating GBV requires “a whole-of-society approach.” She challenged everyone to take action, either by supporting survivors, reporting abusers, or challenging toxic norms.
“As we embark on this 16-day journey, let us remember that it is not just about these two weeks but about the year-round fight to eliminate violence against women and girls. It is about creating a safer, fairer, and more equitable society for all,” she added.
Setting the tone for the event, the Secretary of the Akwa Ibom State Gender-Based Violence Management Committee, Barr. Emem Ette, described GBV in the state as a hydra-headed issue. She acknowledged the state government’s successes in addressing GBV through the provision of prompt responses to cases, medical, psychological, and legal services, but noted that the menace still appears insurmountable.
While urging everyone to actively address GBV issues, Ette advised parents to remain vigilant, as new forms of GBV, such as sextortion and human trafficking, are becoming prevalent in the state.
“As the world evolves, new trends of GBV continue to emerge. Now we have what is called sextortion, which many of our teenagers are experiencing. Another is human trafficking; we have seen several children being trafficked. We must address these issues. As we begin the 16 Days of Activism, we will draw the attention of parents to be more cautious about their children. If you want to send your children to school, walk with them,” she advised.
