Religious, traditional leaders tasked on end to SGBV
The Interfaith Dialogue Forum for Peace (IDFP) has called on religious and traditional leaders to be at the forefront in the fight against sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV). The call was made during the launch of the Compendium of Faith & Traditional Actors in Prevention of Gender-Based Violence in Nigeria, organized by IDFP in partnership […]
The Interfaith Dialogue Forum for Peace (IDFP) has called on religious and traditional leaders to be at the forefront in the fight against sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV).
The call was made during the launch of the Compendium of Faith & Traditional Actors in Prevention of Gender-Based Violence in Nigeria, organized by IDFP in partnership with UN Women in Abuja.
The event, themed ‘Faith and Traditional Leaders for Ending GBV through Advocacy, Policy & Social Norms Change – LEAP Project,’ brought together key figures in religious, traditional and development sectors.
Speaking during the event, the Project Officer of IFDP, said traditional and religious leaders play a huge role in combating SGBV as they are revered in their community.
She lamented the lip service the leaders have made over the years in their communities to cases of SGBV which she said they need to speak up to enable change for punitive actions against perpetrators.
“We have recognized the vital role of religious and faith leaders, as well as traditional leaders, in collaborating to prevent and address sexual and gender-based violence in our communities.
She also pointed out the prevalence of harmful cultural norms enabling SGBV, such as child marriages, forced marriages, and the denial of inheritance rights for women and girls.
“We’ve noted the impunity often granted to perpetrators, particularly in cases of rape or the defilement of minors, where communities frequently opt to handle such matters internally.
She stressed the lack of enforcement of existing laws like the Violence Against Persons Prohibition Act (VAPP) and state action plans.
“The enforcement and implementation of these laws remain a significant challenge,” she said, noting the project’s focus on bridging the gap between traditional leaders and government policies.
On his part, , Co-chair (Christian) of IDFP, Reverend Akila Abainitus Hamman, highlighted the purpose of the compendium, describing it as a bold guide to help the people, as a society, conduct themselves ethically, particularly in safeguarding women and girls.
He urged faith leaders to take responsibility, saying, “As faith leaders, we must exercise great care, knowing that we will ultimately be accountable to God. Transparency and accountability are essential in our dealings.”
Co-secretary of IDFP, Reverend Father Joseph Tile Nomhwange, echoed these sentiments, stating, “The church is now addressing gender-based violence more seriously than ever before. We cannot support or remain silent about such issues.”
He emphasised the need for a united approach to end SGBV, leveraging the influence of traditional and religious leaders while ensuring the enforcement of existing laws and policies.