Ifunanya Obeme-Ndukwe
Despite increasing advocacy against Gender-Based Violence (GBV), harmful traditional practices remain widespread in parts of Rivers State.
This was revealed in a research study conducted by the Medical Women’s Association of Nigeria (MWAN), Rivers State Chapter, which found that practices such as female circumcision continue to thrive with limited public attention.
Presenting the findings, Professor Omosivie Maduka, a Consultant Public Health Physician and MWAN’s Research, Monitoring and Evaluation Lead, said the study carried out in Aluu, Ikwerre Local Government Area; Rumuekini, Obio/Akpor Local Government Area; and two communities in Abua/Odual Local Government Area confirmed the persistence of GBV.
According to her, the research showed that 30 percent of women across the four communities had experienced GBV in the past three months, a figure that translates to one in three women. She called on stakeholders to take decisive action, stressing the need for strategies that include direct community engagement and educating perpetrators on the consequences of such practices.
Dr. Izeduwa Derex-Briggs of the Ford Foundation, West Africa Office, also highlighted the devastating consequences of harmful traditional practices, particularly early marriage among girls.
Meanwhile, a Project Steering Committee has been inaugurated to drive the campaign against GBV. The committee comprises representatives from the state government, health sector, media, non-governmental organizations, judiciary, and other stakeholders.
