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No Excuse for Violence Against Women – Mohamed M. Fall
No Excuse for Violence Against Women – Mohamed M. Fall
By: Michael Mike
No cultural practice, tradition, economic, or social pressure can justify the suffering endured by millions of women and girls. Our role is to challenge these harmful narratives.
Gender inequality and violence against women remain among the greatest challenges to sustainable development, not just in Nigeria but globally. According to UN Women, globally, an estimated 736 million women, almost one in three have been subjected to physical and, or sexual intimate partner violence, non-partner sexual violence, or both at least once in their life, which represents 30 per cent of women aged 15 and older. This figure does not include sexual harassment.
Violence against women and girls is a violation of human rights. It undermines the principles of equality, dignity, and respect. This violence takes many forms—physical, emotional, sexual, and economic; and occurs in every part of the world, including Nigeria. From intimate partner violence to harmful traditional practices such as female genital mutilation, trafficking, exploitation, sexual harassment, and assault, the pervasive nature of gender-based violence reflects deep-rooted societal inequalities.
Reports have also established that women who have experienced violence are more likely to suffer from depression, and anxiety disorders with long-lasting dire consequences. The United Nations further captured the situation of gender-based violence globally: “For at least 51,100 women in 2023, the cycle of gender-based violence ended with one final and brutal act—their murder by partners and family members. That means a woman was killed every 10 minutes.”
In Nigeria, violence and harmful practices against women and girls happen every day, and most of the time they are not reported. The Nigerian Demographic and Health Survey in 2018 found that 9 percent of women aged 15 to 49 had suffered sexual assault at least once in their lifetime and 31% had experienced physical violence. Restrictions and implications from the COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated the gender-based violence (GBV) in the nation.
One of the global initiatives that consistently puts a spotlight on the issue of gender-based violence is the 16 Days of Activism against gender-based violence which starts on 25 November, the International Day For The Elimination Of Violence Against Women and ends on 10 December, the Human Rights Day. This period serves as a crucial platform to raise awareness, mobilize action, and demand an end to all forms of violence against women and girls.
During these 16 Days of Activism, let us not only reflect on the stories of pain but also celebrate the strength, resilience, and courage of women and girls in Nigeria and the rest of the world. Let us honor their voices and commit to a future free from violence. It is a time to reflect on our progress and acknowledge the work that still lies ahead.
“No Excuse. UNiTE to End Violence against Women” is this year’s theme, and according to the UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, it means standing with activists around the world who are calling for change and supporting survivors of violence. It is a powerful call to action. It asserts our collective responsibility to ensure that no woman, or girl is subjected to violence in their homes, communities, or workplaces. Violence in any form is never justified, acceptable, or excusable.
It is critical that we unite in our efforts to eliminate violence in all its forms. We must collaborate with governments, civil society, international organizations, and the private sector, to address the root causes of violence. We need to confront the harmful attitudes, stereotypes, and discriminatory norms that perpetuate a culture of violence. It is essential to break the silence and ensure that survivors receive the support and protection they need to rebuild their lives.
There is no excuse for violence against women. No cultural practice, tradition, economic, or social pressure can justify the suffering endured by millions of women and girls. Our role is to challenge these harmful narratives. It is our collective responsibility to ensure that every woman and girl can live free from fear of violence and discrimination. We must create safer environments where women and girls can access education, work, health services, and lead fulfilling lives without fear.
As Nigeria joins the rest of the world to observe the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, I stand with the global community in declaring an urgent truth: There is no excuse for violence against women and girls. This is not a matter for debate; it is a call to immediate action. The United Nations in Nigeria stands firmly against violence in all its forms. We are resolute in our commitment to supporting the Nigerian government and all stakeholders to end gender-based violence.
Our work in Nigeria focuses on strengthening legal frameworks, improving access to justice, and creating awareness to change mindsets and behaviours.
But we cannot do this alone. We need support from everyone: community leaders, religious institutions, educators, and individuals. It is vital to engage men and boys as partners in this fight, encouraging them to speak out against violence, challenge harmful gender norms, and foster respect and equality in their homes and communities.
We must also ensure that survivors of violence have access to the services and resources they need to heal and rebuild their lives. This includes healthcare, legal aid, and counseling services. It is essential to create spaces where survivors can share their stories without fear of retaliation and where their dignity is preserved.
Together, we can unlock the full potential of every Nigerian and build a future where gender equality is not just an aspiration but a reality.
There is no excuse for violence against women. Together, we can make a difference. Together, we can create a world free from violence and discrimination. A world where women can live with diginity and respect.
Mohammed M. Fall, is the United Nations Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator in Nigeria. He writes from Abuja.
No Excuse for Violence Against Women – Mohamed M. Fall
Troops arrest suspected gun-runner in Taraba, recover weapons and ammunition
By: Zagazola Makama
Troops deployed at Ibi and the Forward Operating Base (FOB) Wukari have arrested a suspected gun-runner and recovered weapons, ammunition, and other items during an intelligence-led operation in Taraba State.
Security sources disclosed that the troops acted on credible intelligence about a suspicious Peugeot vehicle heading toward the Ibi waterside area. The troops swiftly mobilised to intercept the vehicle and apprehended the suspect.
The suspect, identified as Abubakar Ibrahim, 48, from Barkin-Ladi Local Government Area of Plateau State, was arrested during the operation.
Items recovered from him include six locally fabricated weapons bearing various registration numbers, two rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition, one Peugeot 504 vehicle, a Q Seven mobile phone, seven bottles of perfume with rubbers, seven charms, one mentholatum rub, two small containers of Vaseline, and the sum of N1,400 in cash.
Military sources said the suspect and the recovered items are currently in custody and will be transferred to the Brigade Headquarters for further investigation.
The sources added that the general security situation within the Area of Responsibility remains calm but highly unpredictable, noting that troops’ morale and fighting efficiency remain satisfactory.
The arrest is part of ongoing efforts by security forces to curb the proliferation of illegal arms and criminal activities in Taraba and adjoining areas.
Troops arrest suspected gun-runner in Taraba, recover weapons and ammunition
ISWAP kills professor in targeted abduction on Maiduguri-Damboa highway
By: Zagazola Makama
ISWAP terrorists have reportedly killed Professor Abubakar Mohammed el-Jumma of the Nigerian Army University Biu following a targeted abduction along the Maiduguri-Damboa highway on March 25, 2025.
Sources told Zagazola Makama that the attackers, described as light-skinned foreigners, specifically targeted Professor el-Jumma, suggesting the abduction was premeditated. The perpetrators were reportedly in possession of his photograph before carrying out the attack, confirming that the operation was deliberate and planned.
Authorities have confirmed that no ransom demands were made and attempts to negotiate his release were unsuccessful. ISWAP later informed the family of Professor el-Jumma’s death and that his burial had been carried out within their enclave.
The incident demonstrates ISWAP’s growing capability to exploit local vulnerabilities with the support of spies and sympathizers.
The group’s targeting of high-profile individuals, including academics and community leaders, reflects a shift towards calculated kidnappings designed to spread fear and disrupt governance and education in the North East.
No official statement has yet been issued by Nigerian Army University Biu authorities regarding the incident.
ISWAP kills professor in targeted abduction on Maiduguri-Damboa highway
News
Bayelsa East Leaders, Elders, Women, Youths To Protest Over Marginalization In Sen Douye Diri Administration
Bayelsa East Leaders, Elders, Women, Youths To Protest Over Marginalization In Sen Douye Diri Administration
Leaders, stakeholders, women and youths in Bayelsa East Senatorial District has perfected preparations to stage a peaceful protest against Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Douye Diri over marginalization and neglect in political appointments in the government since inception.
The people of the east also deserves sensitive offices in the government for their resolute support for the government since inception, but they have been marginalized. The office of the deputy governor from the east will balance the political structure.
Marginalization of the east people in sensitive government appointments is an outright disrespect to the former President, Dr. Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, King Alfred Diette-Spiff, Gen. Melford Okilo, and other leaders from the east senatorial district.
Even though the speaker of the state house of assembly is not considered, there are other competent individuals eminently qualified to handle the office of the deputy governor for the remaining years of the government.
The governor should consult former president, and other leaders from the east to chose a deputy governor from either Ogbia, Nembe or Brass.
The eastern region planned peaceful protest is a furtherance expression of dissatisfaction in accordance and solidarity with the group, the Bayelsa State Chapter of the All Progressives Congress Grassroot Movement (BSAGM) condemnation of Governor Diri administration over marginalization of appointments.
According to the eastern people, the governor has consciously and deliberately marginalized the east in sensitive political appointments in the government, pointing out that all the top offices in the government are handled by his relatives from Kolokuma-Opokuma and Sagbama.
For instance; all government house appointments are handled by his relatives, the chief of staff, deputy chief of staff, Director of Domestic, Director of Transport, including S.A Political, and other sensitive appointments in the government.
Governor Douye Diri has deliberately neglected and marginalized the east, we will exercise our constitutional right of a peaceful protest to express our dissatisfaction to the world.
Since the creation of Bayelsa State, successive administrations had maintained political conglomeration across the three senatorial district in the state, but Diri administration had neglected the east from inception.
The east is only been marginalized, and neglected in Diri administration. Alamieyeseigha, Jonathan, Sylva, and Dickson carried out fair, equal appointments, infrastructure across the state, in their administrations.
Successive governments since 1999, had fairly and transparently distributed political appointments across the senatorial district, but the contrary is Diri’s administration.
It is absolutely unfortunate that the east had been undermined by Diri, running a one-sided government of Kolokuma-Opokuma, and the whole state is watching the government.
In exercise of constitutional right of a peaceful protest, the east will carry out a peaceful protest to government house next week to publicly express their dissatisfaction to the world over the undemocratic marginalization of appointments in Diri administration.
Signed:
Chief Samuel Azibator – Ogbia
High Chief Nengi Sylvanus -Nembe
Chief Williams Naworio – Brass
Bayelsa East Leaders, Elders, Women, Youths To Protest Over Marginalization In Sen Douye Diri Administration
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