Stakeholders evaluated harmful cultural and religious practices that continue to fuel gender discrimination and violence in many communities.
By TheInvestigator
Stakeholders working to end gender-based violence (GBV) in Cross River State have called on the state government to demonstrate stronger political will in addressing the rising cases of violence against women and girls.
The call was made during a State Consultative Forum on Eliminating Harmful Traditional and Religious Practices Affecting Women’s Rights and Gender Equality, organised by the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) in collaboration with the Legal Defence and Assistance Project (LEDAP), with support from the Ford Foundation.
The event took place on November 28, 2025, at the NHRC mini-conference hall in Calabar as part of activities marking the annual 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence.
The forum brought together a diverse range of participants, including representatives of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA), Ministry of Justice, Muslim community, Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), traditional rulers, women-focused NGOs, civil society groups, community-based organisations, and the National Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ).
In his opening remarks, the Cross River State Coordinator of the NHRC, Mr Remi O. Ajuga, appreciated participants for turning up despite the short notice and urged them to actively engage with the objectives of the meeting.
State Coordinator NHRC CRS with HRH Ntoe E B Oqua, Clan Head Big Qua Town, Calabar Municipality.
Stakeholders evaluated harmful cultural and religious practices that continue to fuel gender discrimination and violence in many communities. They also reviewed existing laws and policies designed to protect women and girls, noting gaps in implementation across the state.
Representative of FIDA Cross River State making a contribution during the Consultative forum.
A recurring concern was the lack of strong political commitment, which participants said remains a major barrier to progress. They emphasised that renewed political will, coupled with improved inter-agency collaboration, would significantly strengthen efforts to curb gender-based violence and advance gender equality in Cross River State.
The forum ended with a vote of thanks delivered by the NHRC Coordinator, after which group photographs were taken to mark the close of the event.