GBV: Come, let’s fight it together

By Ismail Omipidan

I was in Osogbo recently, to lend my voice to the fight against Gender-Based Violence (GBV). It was a capacity-building programme, organised by a nonprofit organisation, Milestone Agenda for Youth Empowerment and Development Initiative (MAFYEDI) and supported by the Nigerian Youth Futures Fund (NYFF).

I was one of the speakers on the occasion. My presentation was tailored towards how journalists, media professionals and online influencers can contribute to the fight against Gender-Based Violence.

The event was well attended, no doubt. Thanks to the Correspondents’ chapel of Osun NUJ, the online media practitioners and selected participants from the radio and television stations in Osun State.

I spoke on the different forms of GBV – physical violence, sexual violence, emotional/ psychological violence, economic violence and Technology-Facilitated Gender-Based Violence (TFGBV). One in every three women in Nigeria experiences physical or sexual violence in her lifetime.

Despite various interventions by CSOs and governments, cases of GBV remain prevalent across Nigeria, including Osun State. Reports indicate a rise in cases of sexual assault, intimate partner violence, and child abuse and even feminicide. Women and girls are disproportionately affected, facing risks both offline and online.

How you can help in the fight against GBV

As a journalist, report ethically, give survivors a voice, and spotlight systemic issues. As a content creator/influencer, use your digital space to challenge harmful gender norms, while promoting zero-tolerance for violence against girls and women.

Use human angle and real stories to evoke emotions of the public. Use data and real stories. Facts connect minds, stories touch hearts, therefore, obtain informed consent before sharing any survivor’s story, while protecting their identities. Avoid photos, names, or details that can expose survivors, especially children. Also, use gender-sensitive language (e.g., “survivor” not “victim”) and verify facts before publishing, just as you must endeavour to create compelling visuals — infographics, short videos, quotes.

For me, ending GBV requires collective effort. Every influencer, journalist, and content creator has a role to play. Use your voice to promote empathy, equality, and accountability and remember, the change begins with your platform.

Together, we can build a violence-free Osun State and set a model for other states in Nigeria.