By Sulyman Pakoyi

As part of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, the Side By Side Network of Faith Leaders for Gender Justice (SBS) organised a gender walk in Akure, the Ondo State capital, to raise awareness.

The Gender walk, held on Monday, November 25, 2024, aimed to sensitise the public about the prevalence of gender-based violence.

The event was sponsored by Christian Aid, the African Centre for Leadership, Strategy and Development (Centre LSD), and their partners at SBS.

Speaking during the walk, the Co-Chair of SBS Southwest, Rev. Dr. Ebenezer O. Oke, explained that the awareness campaign was part of the “Promoting Climate Action for Gender Justice” project. He highlighted its alignment with the objectives of the global 16 Days of Activism campaign.

“The 2024 edition reflects on progress and evaluates advancements and challenges since the Beijing Declaration.

“We aim to highlight the prevalence of gender-based issues in our community, particularly in Ondo State and the Southwest region of Nigeria. We also seek to address policy advocacy, strengthen existing laws and policies, and mobilize resources to combat gender-based violence,” he stressed.

Reverend Dr. John Ayo Oladapo, Executive Director of the Centre for Blissful Home Initiative, emphasized the need to respect human dignity.

He advocated for the protection of everyone’s rights, regardless of gender or status, to ensure a peaceful and inclusive society.

High Chief Kolawole James Oluwole, Deputy Chairman of the Police Community Relations Committee, Ondo State, stressed the importance of gender equity in addressing violence.

Also, Religious organizations that participated in the Gender Walk against gender-based violence emphasised the need for sensitization on gender justice. The Chairperson of the Women’s Wing of the Christian Association of Nigeria, (WOWICAN) Ondo Chapter, Patricia Ojimiwe, represented by Mrs. Arogun Olayinka noted that the group consistently works to educate and sensitise people about the dangers of gender-based violence.

Similarly, The Federation of Muslim Women in Nigeria (FOMWAN)President, Alhaja Omikunle Medinat, reaffirmed their partnership with SBS in raising awareness about the dangers of gender-based violence.