Female Lawyers Intensify Efforts to End Violence Against Women in Nigeria

A coalition of female legal professionals, under the aegis of the International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA) Nigeria, has renewed calls for comprehensive action to eradicate violence against women and girls across the country. The group emphasized the urgent need for stronger legal frameworks, community engagement, and institutional accountability to address the pervasive issue of gender-based violence (GBV)

FIDA Nigeria highlighted alarming cases, including a recent incident in Anambra State where a man set his wife ablaze, and another in Edo State involving the gang rape of a 12-year-old girl. These cases underscore the severity of GBV and the necessity for immediate and effective interventions.

In a related development, Omowumi Ogunrotimi, a feminist lawyer and founder of the Gender Mobile Initiative, has been at the forefront of combating GBV through innovative approaches. Her organization developed the “Campus Pal” mobile application, which facilitates confidential reporting of sexual harassment cases in Nigerian universities, promoting safer learning environments.

Ogunrotimi’s advocacy extends to legislative reforms. She played a pivotal role in the passage of the Sexual Harassment Prevention, Prohibition, and Redressal in Tertiary Educational Institutions Bill by the House of Representatives. The bill, awaiting presidential assent, aims to impose stricter penalties on perpetrators of sexual harassment in academic settings.

FIDA Nigeria continues to champion the implementation of the Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Act (VAPP) of 2015, which criminalizes various forms of violence, including domestic abuse and harmful traditional practices . The organization urges all stakeholders, including government agencies, civil society, and community leaders, to collaborate in creating a society free from violence against women and girls.