On the occasion of the Global International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, Peter Obi, the presidential candidate of the Labour Party in the February 25 election, has put forward solutions to address violence against women. In a series of tweets, Obi condemned all forms of violence against women and highlighted the prevalence of such incidents in Nigeria.
According to Obi, the National Demographic and Health Survey reveals that one in three Nigerian women has experienced physical violence by the age of 15. Additionally, a 2019 survey by the National Bureau of Statistics indicates that 68% of Nigerian women, regardless of age, have encountered emotional, economic, or sexual abuse.
Obi emphasized that the key to eliminating violence against women lies in granting them unhindered access to quality education, empowering them to assume their rightful roles in society, and providing adequate healthcare. He stressed the importance of education and healthcare in empowering women and contributing to national development.
The former governor also acknowledged the political influence of women in Nigeria and the critical role they play in the country’s politics. Obi called for adherence to the rule of law to eliminate violence and create a society where both men and women can contribute to building a better Nigeria. He concluded that development is not gender-based, and the nation must unite to move forward with love and unity.