When children speak out against domestic violence
Dr. Gloria Ibikunle, Acting Director, Gender Security Studies, University of Abuja, expressed the need for children to speak out against domestic violence.
Ibikunle made this known at a one-day sensitization rally and medical outreach organized by the Center for Gender Security and Youth Advancement in collaboration with the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP).
Speaking on the theme 'Stop Domestic Violence' held at Gwagwalada Market, Abuja, she asserted that domestic violence is on the rise in the society and the whole family needs to step up.
The tragedy of domestic violence, she says, is that it also affects children from the different families where it occurs.
In her words: “The United Nations declares a 16-day campaign at the end of every year. Our contribution is to organize this one-day awareness rally. Instead, we decided to come to the market.
“Domestic violence is on the rise in our society. Husbands and wives need to learn how to resolve problems peacefully. The tragedy of domestic violence is that it also affects children. If a child is raised in a violent atmosphere, the child is more likely to become violent.
“Children have a role to play in speaking out against domestic violence, and depending on their age, this can be very helpful.
In a real-life scenario, I have watched a 12-year-old boy care for his mother fleeing domestic violence. I have also seen scenarios where children work together to fight off abusive parents. ”
In his opening remarks, Chairman of the Gwagwalada Main Market Traders Association, Aminu Lawan Bakinluwa, praised the initiative and advised men to be more sensitive to issues concerning their wives.
He said: “We are very grateful for this gathering and the medical support. This recognition today will go a long way in addressing domestic violence involving market players. We urge you to love and cherish your loved ones, and not to become violent in dealing with potential problems.”
NAPTIP Representative Msheliza Paul Yati spoke at the gathering and reiterated NAPTIP's commitment to supporting victims of domestic violence. He said: “NAPTIP is one of the easiest institutions to access on a law enforcement basis. Director-General, Professor. Thanks to Fatima Waziri, we now have several platforms for reporting. You can walk through the gate to the agency, write a letter of complaint, send an email, or call the 24-hour call center.
“Our emergency numbers are seamless. Like a 627 code. Now there's an eye report app available for download from Google.”
Naomi E. John, CEO of Noble Voices Against Women and Children Violence in Nigeria, domestic violence survivor and counselor, also said: Akpan stressed the need for women to leave abusive marriages.
She further said that children should report domestic violence in the home to neighbors or anyone else who can help inform the appropriate authorities.
“Domestic violence is never okay. It is an experience that leaves permanent scars on an individual. As a survivor, I would advise anyone experiencing this situation to speak up and walk away. .Do not believe that a man or woman will change because it is innate.
“Children have a role to play and should speak out to neighbors, family friends, relatives such as uncles and aunts, pastors and sometimes imams, or anyone who can help. “I'm sure you'll feel the same way about it,” she said.
Source: guardian.ng