Oyo State Programme Officer for the RSSH C19-RM project, Oluseun Adebiyi, has raised concerns about the growing cases of gender-based violence (GBV) at the grassroots, attributing the trend to misconceptions among young men about the issue. Speaking during the December edition of the RSSH C19-RM project meeting in Ibadan, Adebiyi highlighted alarming attitudes toward violence against women and the girl child.
“Some of the younger generation do not see a big deal in committing physical violence against women and the girl child,” he said. According to Adebiyi, this misunderstanding has contributed to the increase in cases of domestic violence and abandonment, particularly among young couples unwilling to take responsibility.
Adebiyi also emphasized the role of economic challenges in perpetuating GBV, noting that many women endure violence due to financial dependence on their abusers. “The economic status of many women forces them to tolerate violence, often leading to grievous harm or even death if no action is taken,” he warned.
The project’s outreach activities in November, which included visits to three schools, two churches, and small group discussions led by NEPWHAN case managers, revealed a reluctance among victims to pursue justice. “Some cases of gender-based violence couldn’t be resolved fully because the women didn’t want to pursue the case,” Adebiyi noted.
To address the issue, Adebiyi urged the government to expand women’s empowerment programs and called on religious bodies to educate women about self-reliance and the importance of speaking out against violence.
“Religious bodies should sensitise more on the dangers of physical violence in homes and its consequences on society,” he said, adding that schools, homes, and communities should integrate values and social responsibilities into informal and extracurricular activities.
Adebiyi advised men to exercise restraint during conflicts and avoid arguments with their partners in the presence of children. “This will prevent children from learning and perpetuating violent behaviors,” he explained.
The expert’s recommendations highlight the urgent need for societal and systemic reforms to curb gender-based violence and promote a culture of respect and accountability.
