—– Launches 16 days activism to end digital violence against women, girls

By Dayo Johnson, Akure

The Ondo state government has promised to total eradicate of all forms of discrimination, violence, and abuse against women and girls across the state.

Dr. (Mrs.) Seun Osamaye, the State Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, said this while heralding the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence to end violence against women and girls across the globe

The Commissioner, said that ” the state government remains resolute in promoting an inclusive society where gender-based violence is not tolerated and where justice is accessible, timely, and uncompromised.

She assured the residents and citizens of the state that the state government will continue to collaborate with civil society organizations, traditional institutions, security agencies, and development partners to uphold these commitments and build a safer environment for all.

Every woman and girl, according to her “has the right to live in dignity, safety, and equality.

Osamaye said ” to this end, all relevant ministries, agencies, and partners are directed to strengthen existing frameworks, enhance community sensitization, and ensure full enforcement of laws protecting the rights and wellbeing of women and girls.

The Commissioner emphasized the urgency of addressing the rising cases of online harassment, cyber-stalking, revenge pornography, and other forms of digital abuse targeting women and girls in the state, saying “technology should empower, not endanger our women and girls”

According to her “this year, the government is intentional in spotlighting digital violence because it is silent, pervasive, and often overlooked.

“This year, the government is intentional in spotlighting digital violence because it is silent, pervasive, and often overlooked. Fighting against gender-based violence cannot be achieved effectively if digital violence is to be ignored”

Osamaye said that the 16-day campaign, which will run from 25th November to 10th December will feature a comprehensive lineup of activities designed to raise awareness, strengthen response systems, and foster collective action across the state.

” The 16-day campaign, running from 25th November International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women to 10th December will feature a comprehensive lineup of activities designed to raise awareness, strengthen response systems, and foster collective action across the state.

Highlights of the programme, Osamaye said include, Official launch and press briefing with the symbolic “Orange the World” illumination at the Ministry on Tuesday November 25th, while an awareness walk and roadshow across major streets of Akure hold on the 26th of November 2025

She said that on December 1st 2025 there will be engagement with Men and Boys Forum under the “HeForShe” initiative. While 3 Dec: Free legal clinic in collaboration with the Ministry of Justice, NBA, and FIDA

“On December 8, statewide social media marathon and release of short documentaries on digital GBV while the grand closing ceremony with awards, cultural performances, and release of a GBV action plan communiqué will hold on 10, December

Osamaye added that the campaign will prioritize inclusion, with dedicated activities for persons with disabilities, rural communities, market women, and survivors seeking medical, psychosocial, and economic support.

She said the ministry is collaborating with key partners including the Ministries of Health and Justice, Nigeria Police, NSCDC, UNFPA, UNICEF, CSOs, traditional rulers, media organizations, and disability groups to ensure statewide reach and impact.

The Commissioner said that “all the ongoing initiatives, policy reforms, and collaborative efforts with critical stakeholders are being strengthened to ensure that every woman and girl in Ondo State is protected, respected, and given equal opportunities to thrive.

The Director of the Ondo State Agency Against Gender Based Violence, Tunde Emoruwa, said gender-based violence has become increasingly rampant, with many victims suffering and dying in silence.

Emoruwa expressed concern that moral values and societal discipline are gradually eroding, creating an environment where abuse thrives unchecked.

He noted that the menace of GBV is not only rising but increasing at a geometric rate, causing deeper harm to families, communities, and the society at large.

The director called for collective action to halt the growing devastation and protect vulnerable groups, especially women and girls.