From Juliana Taiwo-Obalonye, Abuja
Minister of Women Affairs Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim has called for punitive measures like life imprisonment or death sentence against perpetrators of gender-based violence (GBV) as the country launched the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence campaign. Under the theme “Unite Campaign: Towards Beijing to Prevent Violence Against Women and Girls.”
Addressing press conference to kickstart the campaign, the Minister called for significant reforms in the legal system to enhance protections for women and girls.
Sulaiman-Ibrahim emphasised the need for more severe punitive measures for those found guilty of GBV, stating,
“We must advocate for laws that impose strict penalties and send a clear message that violence against women will not be tolerated. We must consider life imprisonment and even the death penalty for the most egregious offenses. Our current laws do not adequately deter these heinous acts.”
She pointed out that existing legal loopholes often allow offenders to escape justice, undermining efforts to protect vulnerable populations.
Highlighting the inadequacies of current legislation, she remarked, “The Child Rights Act and other legal frameworks provide too much leeway for perpetrators. We need to advocate for laws that impose strict penalties and send a clear message that violence against women will not be tolerated.”
The Minister’s remarks came as part of a broader call to action for civil society organizations (CSOs), government agencies, and community leaders to unite in addressing GBV. “We must work together to ensure that our legal system reflects our commitment to safeguarding the rights and dignity of all women and girls,” she urged.
Sulaiman-Ibrahim stressed that only through decisive action can society create a safe environment where women and girls are free from violence and fear.
Addressing the gathering of government officials, women groups and civil society organisations, she emphasised the critical need for a united front in the fight against violence towards women and girls.
Speaking at the event, she declared, “The fight against gender-based violence is a battle for the soul of our society, which we must win.”
Sulaiman-Ibrahim urged that the campaign, coinciding with the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, should not be seen merely as a calendar event but as a call to action. “This is a stark reminder that violence against women and girls is not inevitable but preventable,” she stated.
Highlighting the alarming statistics, she noted that approximately 30% of Nigerian women and girls aged 15 to 49 have experienced physical or sexual violence. “This violence occurs not only in homes but extends to schools, workplaces, and communities,” she said, stressing that it affects all demographics regardless of tribe or creed.
Sulaiman-Ibrahim expressed confidence in the government’s commitment to addressing GBV, citing support from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu. “With their steadfast resolve, we can accelerate our efforts and achieve unprecedented progress,” she remarked.
Over the next 16 days, she said the Ministry will organize various events aimed at raising awareness and mobilizing communities. “Prevention begins with education,” Sulaiman-Ibrahim emphasised, highlighting plans to engage traditional and religious leaders in promoting positive cultural norms.
As part of the campaign’s multi-sectoral approach, she reiterated the importance of involving men and boys as allies in combating GBV. “We must foster a culture of respect and equality,” she urged.
The Minister concluded by calling for collective responsibility from all sectors of society to create a future where every woman and girl can live free from violence and discrimination. “When women and girls thrive, sustainable development is assured,” she affirmed.