Violence against women: WOWICAN partners UN Women to sensitise religious, traditional leaders on prevention

The Women Wing of the Christian Association of Nigeria (WOWICAN) has taken a groundbreaking step in the fight against gender-based violence (GBV) with the launch of its maiden sensitisation program for religious and traditional leaders.

The programme held at the Iwa Farmers Multipurpose Hall last week drew over 60 passionate women, all dedicated to ending violence against women and girls.

In her welcome address, the National Chairperson of WOWICAN General, Lady Superintendent Elizabeth Akinadewo highlighted the urgent need for this initiative. She explained that the high prevalence of GBV in Kajola Local Government Area prompted the association to take action, particularly in Ayetoro-Oke town.

With the support of UN Women, WOWICAN plans to expand this vital program to other states, including Enugu, Taraba, Plateau, Benue, and Rivers.

“Women, show love to your husbands, and husbands, protect your wives and daughters against GBV. It’s crucial for major stakeholders to ensure that every necessary measure is in place to eradicate violence in our society,” General Lady Superintendent Elizabeth added.

The Oyo State Chairperson of WOWICAN, Lady Dr. Patricia Obi, reinforced this commitment, stating that the organisation will remain in Ayetoro-Oke until GBV prevalence is near zero. Her declaration underscored the unwavering resolve of the organization to ensure the safety and well-being of women and girls.

Dr. Dare Adaramoye, Executive Director of the Trailblazer Health Initiative, provided a compelling lecture on the root causes of GBV, such as ignorance, traditional myths, and religious misperceptions. He called for the abolition of harmful traditions while preserving beneficial ones, highlighting the need for informed and proactive measures.

Adding a touch of regality to the event, His Royal Majesty Afọlábí Osuolale, the Gbadewolu 1, and King of Ayetoro-Oke, praised WOWICAN’s efforts. He noted that while the community has no recorded instances of violence against women and girls, the initiative serves as a crucial reminder of the importance of vigilance.

The King recounted a past incident involving a foreigner, swiftly dealt with by the community, illustrating their commitment to protecting women.

Religious leaders, including Evangelist Ogunwuyi Amos, the CAN Coordinator in Ayetoro-Oke, and Chief Imam of Anwar Islam, Tijani Oladimeji, pledged to integrate the lessons from the sensitization into their teachings, spreading awareness and fostering a culture of respect and protection.

In her own resolve, one of the attendee Mrs. Famoroti Oluwaseun, expressed her newfound confidence and understanding of GBV and vowed to use this knowledge to advocate against violence in her community, embodying the program’s impact and potential for change.

The event featured engaging plenary sessions, interactive questionnaires, and a dynamic question-and-answer segment, fostering a vibrant exchange of ideas and solutions. Women from all walks of life, traditional and religious leaders, and representatives from UN Women and WOWICAN at both state and national levels united in this powerful stand against gender-based violence.

This initiative marks a significant step towards a safer, more just future for women and girls across Nigeria while demonstrating WOWICAN’s unwavering commitment to ending GBV and promoting a culture of respect and equality.

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