The Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) FCT Council, Comrade Grace Ike, has called for decisive collective action to end gender-based violence as the world marks the 2025 edition of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence.
She also expressed concern over the rising threat of digital violence against women and girls, urging stakeholders to treat online abuse with the same urgency as physical violence.
In a statement on Wednesday, Ike said this year’s campaign aligns with the UNiTE global theme: “End Digital Violence Against All Women and Girls.”
She said: “I stand firmly in support of the 2025 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence campaign and stress the need for all men, women, boys, and girls to work together to end gender-based violence.
“This year highlights the urgent global focus on ending digital violence against all women and girls under the UNiTE campaign theme. Running from November 25 to December 10, the theme calls for united action to eradicate both physical and digital violence, building safer communities and online spaces for all.”
Ike shared her personal experience during the NUJ FCT 2024 election period, saying she endured targeted gender-based harassment and intimidation aimed at silencing her voice and undermining her candidacy.
“This experience underscored how deeply ingrained and harmful gender-based violence can be, extending beyond physical harm to psychological, social, and digital oppression. It reinforced my resolve that no one should endure such abuse, and society must actively dismantle the structures that enable it both offline and online.”
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She emphasised that violence against women and girls is a profound violation of human rights and a barrier to sustainable development.
“It affects victims’ health, dignity, and freedom and fractures the social fabric of communities. NUJ FCT urges everyone to reject and report abuse, challenge cultural norms perpetuating inequality, and advocate for safe, respectful spaces in homes, workplaces, and online,” Ike said.
Highlighting the role of the media, she added: “The media plays a critical role in highlighting the realities of gender-based violence, amplifying survivors’ voices, and demanding justice. NUJ FCT commits to responsible, inclusive reporting that fosters awareness and drives action. Together with partners and the community, we call for stronger legal frameworks, adequate support for survivors, effective policies against digital violence, and widespread education to prevent abuse.”
Ike concluded: “Let this campaign ignite renewed commitment to shift from words to meaningful change, ensuring our society is free from violence and safe for all. NUJ FCT pledges to champion this cause year-round, recognising that ending all forms of gender-based violence, including digital violence, requires a persistent and united effort.
“We call on everyone, men and women alike, to reject violence, speak out against abuse, and support victims. Together, let us move from awareness to action, building a society where dignity, respect, equality, and safety prevail both offline and online.”
