The Spotlight Initiative has officially unveiled its ‘Defeaning Silence’ campaign, which is aimed at eliminating violence against women and girls. The ceremony held at the United Nations House in Abuja.
Speaking on the occasion, which was well attended by the First Lady of Abia State, Her Excellency, Mrs. Priscilla Otti and some veteran Nollywood thespians, the Minister of State for Labour and Productivity, Hon. Nkeiruka Onyejeocha, highlighted the detrimental impact of cultural and religious norms that prevent individuals from speaking out against violence on women and girls.
She emphasized the need for stricter measures, including imprisonment, to deter perpetrators and to send a strong message to society.
The Minister pointed out that cultural and religious norms have continued to prevent people from speaking out against the ugly practice, adding, “We must take a stand against these harmful norms and empower women and girls to break the silence.”
She noted that while legal amendments were crucial in addressing the issue of violence against women and girls, it was important to shift mindsets and change societal attitudes towards gender-based violence.
She commended the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) for its legal support in bringing perpetrators to justice, noting that imprisonment can serve as a powerful deterrent and influence future generations.
“The UNDP’s legal support is vital in ensuring that perpetrators are held accountable for their actions. Imprisonment, not only punishes the offender, but also sends a strong message to their families and communities, thereby potentially influencing the behavior of future generations.”, she added.
