The Nigeria Association of Women Journalists, Enugu State chapter has encouraged female Journalists to use their platforms to increase awareness on all forms of Gender Based Violence (GBV)

The chairperson, Comrade Ngozi Ngene stated this in Enugu, at the end of a “March for Equality” as part of the activities to mark 16 Days Activism on Gender Based Violence, (SGBV) slated between 25th November and 10th December 2023.

The march which took place on Friday December 8, 2023, started at Enugu state Secretariat and terminated at Gov. Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi NUJ Press Center, Independence Layout Enugu.

Stressing the importance of sharing knowledge and innovative solutions to end all forms of violence against women, Ngozi Ngene emphasized that female journalists have the power to make a real difference in the fight against all forms of Gender Based Violence.

“Nigeria Association of Women Journalists Enugu is calling for more action to ensure we have a violence free society.

We believe that an injury to one is an injury to all while Justice to one is justice to all”.

Speaking further Comrade Ngozi Ngene said “let me reiterate that with our access to information and ability to reach a wider audience, female journalists can shine a light on this important issue and help bring about desirable change. Together we can create a safer world for all.

There are many ways we can make a difference in the fight against SGBV, for example; we can write and publish articles that raise awareness on the issue and its effect on women and girls, interview survivors of GBV and share their stories to help others understand the problem and how to address it. We can as well highlight the efforts of some organizations championing the cause to prevent and respond to GBV cases.

I therefore call for realistic policies and other actions that can help to end gender Based violence”.

According to her, NAWOJ Enugu State believes that awareness campaigns and sensitization on implementation of Violence Against Persons Prohibition law and Administration of Criminal Justice law will drastically reduce to the barest minimum, all forms of violence.

Earlier in a release jointly signed by the chairperson, comrade Ngozi Ngene and the secretary, comrade Ogochukwu Chukwudike, the association wants government at all level to ensure speedy justice for victims of violence as well as rehabilitation of survivors while ensuring that perpetrators face the full weight of the law.

The Association urges government agencies, traditional rulers, religious  bodies, Civil Society Organizations, and stakeholders to invest in preventing all forms of violence especially against women and girls.