The commissioner pointed to recent statistics showing that nearly 1 in 3 women and 1 in 4 adolescent girls experience violence in their lifetimes.
By Archibong Jeremiah
Stakeholders and members of the press gathered today in Cross River State to mark the commencement of the annual 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence (GBV), a global campaign aimed at amplifying the voices of survivors and advocating for gender equality. This year’s theme, “Unite, Invest to End Violence Against Women and Girls,” underscores the urgent need for unity and collective action to combat GBV.
The press briefing presided over by the Commissioner for Women Affairs, Mrs Edema Erom highlighted that the 16 Days of Activism, running from November 25 to December 10, is an opportunity to revive commitments to accountability and action, especially as the world approaches the 30th anniversary of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action in 2025. The campaign calls on governments, organizations, and individuals to work towards achieving gender equality and protecting women and girls across all spheres, including in Cross River State.
She drew the attention of the press to the alarming rise in cases of violence against women in the state, including physical, emotional, economic, and political violence. Rape, described as deeply rooted in patriarchal norms, remains a critical issue requiring immediate and sustained interventions. The commissioner pointed to recent statistics showing that nearly 1 in 3 women and 1 in 4 adolescent girls experience violence in their lifetimes.
A glaring example of political violence was cited, with concerns about women being denied equal opportunities to win elections and secure appointments in governance. Out of 18 Local Government Areas (LGAs) in Cross River State, only three women have been elected as council chairpersons. Furthermore, these councils rarely appoint women to principal offices, with Calabar Municipality highlighted as a case in point.
The ministry responsible for women’s and children’s welfare emphasized the need for community-based interventions to promote gender equality. According to the statement, this year’s activism will shine a spotlight on the pressing issues surrounding GBV in Cross River State and create public awareness of what needs to change.
Calling for action, the commissioner urged all stakeholders to challenge societal attitudes that normalize GBV and to prioritize the safety and rights of women and girls. The ministry called on governments and organizations to take the lead in ending GBV by supporting victims and survivors, taking action against perpetrators, and passing an Equal Opportunity Bill to increase women’s participation in elective and appointive offices.
The event concluded with a resounding commitment to supporting the fight against GBV, as stakeholders pledged their efforts toward achieving a safer and more equitable society.
In a goodwill message, the Deputy Director Child of the Ministry of Women Affairs, Mrs Felicia Oti, the Excellence Community Education Welfare Scheme (ECEWS) Cross River State Director, Mr Umana Joe, and Mr Jeff Adamade of Mediatrix Foundation called for all hands to be on deck to achieve the set goals.
