Violence is bad. Violence against women is unacceptable. Rape is devilish. These are all popular statements that people often make, however, ‘saying is not doing’.
Which is why human rights organisations across the world are working so hard through various campaigns to put an end to gender-based violence.
One of such is the UN-backed 16-Days of Activism, which commences every year on November 25, the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women. Why dedicate so many days? You may ask.
It is because over time, the definition of rape has ‘evolved’ and broadened, going beyond the acts of a strange man forcefully having sexual relations with a woman, to such situations as a husband/boyfriend engaging in sexual relations with his wife/girlfriend without her consent.
It is important to vigorously and continuously galvanize action to end violence against women and girls around the world, especially in a place like Nigeria where many still ignorantly regard “indecent dressing” is regarded as the No.1 cause of rape and victims are blamed, ostracized and made to suffer for being victims.
In a 2013 NOI polls survey of 585 adults from across Nigeria, 34% answered ‘What do you think is the most prevalent cause of rape in the society?’ with ‘indecent dressing’. 29% said they personally knew a victim of rape.
So, as we join the campaign, we hope that overtime people become more aware and that more commitment is made by us all, beyond mere social media rants and lip service.
Now, what will you do for the cause?