NGO, Foundation Urge Christian Leaders to Lead Fight Against Gender-Based Violence

Religious leaders in Ogun State are being challenged to intensify their efforts in preventing violence against women and girls by fostering safer environments within their churches and communities. This call to action comes from a two-day consultative and capacity-building meeting organized by the Centre for Women’s Health Information (CEWHIN), with financial backing from the Ford Foundation.

“

Churches must become safe spaces where every individual, especially vulnerable persons, can worship and participate without fear of abuse or exploitation.

The initiative, titled ‘Partnership for Enhanced Violence Against Women and Girls Prevention Among Religious and Traditional Stakeholders in Ogun and Osun States, Nigeria,’ brought together clerics, social work ministers, and deacons from various Christian denominations. The training aimed to equip religious stakeholders with the skills to prevent, identify, and respond to Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG), a pervasive social issue with severe repercussions for families and society.

“

Odukoya explained that the misuse of power, trust or authority to obtain sexual favours constitutes abuse, adding that no Christian doctrine or teaching supports any form of exploitation or violence.

Mrs. Atinuke Odukoya, Executive Director of CEWHIN, addressed the attendees, detailing various forms of abuse, including physical, sexual, and exploitative violence. She stressed the critical need for religious institutions to implement proactive measures against such acts, emphasizing that no Christian doctrine condones exploitation or violence. Odukoya urged churches to establish robust safeguarding structures to minimize abuse opportunities, encourage prompt reporting, support survivors, and ensure offender accountability.

“

Also speaking, Dr Stephen Ilesanmi of Facaulty of Law, University of Ibadan, urged church leaders not to shield GBV offenders from punishment no matter the status.

Dr. Stephen Ilesanmi from the University of Ibadan's Faculty of Law advised church leaders against shielding perpetrators of gender-based violence, regardless of their status. Reverend Adeeko Gbolahan condemned all forms of violence, asserting that Christian teachings promote love and respect. He urged leaders to exemplify this by speaking out against domestic violence and advocating for healthy family relationships, highlighting their responsibility to educate congregations and guide victims toward seeking help.

“

Also speaking at the session, Rev. Adeeko Gbolahan condemned all forms of violence against women and girls within homes and communities, noting that Christian teachings encourage love, respect and peaceful coexistence.