FCT women call for stronger support against GBV
Women in Bwari communities of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) have called for stronger support and collaboration to tackle gender-based violence (GBV) and domestic abuse. The women made the call in separate interviews with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Bwari, Abuja, saying they were increasingly taking frontline roles in addressing abuse through advocacy, […]
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Women in Bwari communities of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) have called for stronger support and collaboration to tackle gender-based violence (GBV) and domestic abuse.
The women made the call in separate interviews with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Bwari, Abuja, saying they were increasingly taking frontline roles in addressing abuse through advocacy, mediation, and community support initiatives.
They said women groups, cooperative societies, and religious gatherings were now being used to sensitise families on peaceful coexistence, women’s rights, and the dangers of domestic violence.
Mrs Hauwa Amos, a women leader in Baran-goni community, said many rural women still suffer physical abuse during family disputes and economic hardship but often remain silent because of stigma and financial dependence.
“Gone are the days of silence. We are no longer sweeping these matters under the carpet,” she said.
Amos said mothers now play key roles in detecting abuse early, encouraging victims to speak out, and helping them access support from community leaders, health workers, and security agencies.
She, however, noted that cultural beliefs, social pressure, and economic challenges still prevent many women from confronting abuse effectively.
She urged traditional rulers, religious leaders, teachers, and community volunteers to intensify sensitisation campaigns against GBV in rural communities. (NAN)
Similarly, Mrs Maryamu Obadiah, a member of the Church Women Fellowship, said increased awareness campaigns during women meetings and health outreach programmes were helping to break the culture of silence around domestic violence.
She identified fear of stigma, economic dependence, and limited access to justice as major factors discouraging victims from reporting abuse. (NAN)