The Federal Government has been urged to enhance national legislation to effectively combat Gender-Based Violence (GBV) through technology-facilitated platform.
Advocate for SGBV, Ms. Joyce Ajifa Haruna, made the appeal in Lokoja during a road walk to mark this year’s 16 Days of Activism.
She indicated that implementing measures to address digital violence through appropriate legislation, utilizing digital tools, crafting national strategies, and providing support services could significantly aid in the eradication of online abuse.
While explaining the campaign theme “UNiTE to End Digital Violence against All Women and Girls,” Ms. Haruna highlighted the importance of eliminating digital violence against women and girls in Nigeria.
She posited that this year’s 16 Days of Activism Against GBV Campaign should serve as a critical opportunity for the government to pass and enforce laws that criminalize digital violence, safeguard personal information, and bolster accountability within the technology sector.
The Kogi SGBV Advocate called on companies and stakeholders in the technology industry to participate in concerted efforts to eliminate digital violence by eradicating harmful content and ensuring that online platforms remain safe for all users.
Ms. Joyce Haruna encouraged communities to continue advocating, supporting survivors, and challenging harmful masculinities and online norms, urging everyone to unite in the pursuit of a GBV-free country where men, women, and girls can fully engage and benefit from the vast opportunities that digital platforms offer.