Oyo CSOs against trafficking in person unite to end gender based violence

OYO STATE NETWORK AGAINST TRAFFICKING IN PERSON CHILD ABUSE AND LABOR (NACTAL) CALL FOR URGENT ACTION AGAINST GENDER-BASED VIOLENCE DURING THE 16 DAYS OF ACTIVISM AGAINST GENDER BASED VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMEN.

Theme: Time to Act Now

All Network of Civil Society Organization Against Trafficking in person, Child Abuse and Labour (NACTAL, OYO STATE) members, stand united with global efforts to end gender-based violence (GBV) as part of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, observed annually from November 25 (International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women) to December 10 (Human Rights Day). This year’s theme, “Time to Act Now,” underscores the urgency of collective action to eliminate all forms of violence against women and girls.

In Nigeria, gender-based violence remains alarmingly prevalent. A 2022 report indicated that at least 30% of Nigerian women and girls aged 15-49 have experienced physical or sexual violence at some point in their lives. Tragically, domestic violence often goes unreported due to societal stigma, fear of reprisal, and weak enforcement of laws designed to protect women. Beyond physical harm, survivors endure long-lasting psychological and economic effects, perpetuating cycles of poverty and inequality.
Gender-based violence remains a critical issue in Nigeria, with alarming statistics highlighting the need for immediate intervention. A UN Women report revealed that 45% of Nigerian women have experienced violence, while domestic violence accounts for a significant percentage of reported cases.

Furthermore, societal stigma and fear of reprisal prevent countless victims from seeking help, leaving many to suffer in silence.
Oyo State NACTAL is committed to breaking this silence. We encourage women and girls facing violence to speak out and seek help. Survivors can report cases to trusted organizations, local authorities, and hotlines such as Oyo State Domestic and Sexual Violence response team. (State Rapid Response Team no to call by public to report GBV cases – 08038565552)

NACTAL Oyo State calls on the Nigerian government to strengthen existing legal frameworks to protect survivors and hold perpetrators accountable; to allocate increased funding to shelters, legal aid, and mental health services for survivors; and to launch widespread public awareness campaigns to shift cultural attitudes that normalize or excuse violence.

We also urge community leaders, educators, and men to play active roles in combating Gender Based Violence by promoting respect, equality, and non-violence. Ending Gender Based Violence is not just a women’s issue; it is a societal imperative.

We invite everyone to join the fight against Gender Based Violence. Whether you are an individual, organization, or policymaker, you have the power to create change. Report violence! Advocate for justice! Support survivors! Together, we can end Gender Based Violence.

Call
NACTAL OYO STATE COORDINATOR ON 08056956272,
08034098028,
08036781497, 08189270344.

Signed By
Mr Gbola Omotosho
Oyo State NACTAL Coordinator.

Issued Date: 3rd December, 2024