The Zonta Clubs of Ibadan have marked the 2024 International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, with an advocacy visit to Aleshinloye Market, Ibadan, Oyo state.
During the visit, members distributed flyers and educated men and women on critical issues such as child marriage, domestic violence, marital rape, and the denial of female education, among others.
Speaking at the event to mark the first day of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, the President of Zonta Club 2, Zontian Eniola Oyedele, emphasized that while the advocacy primarily focuses on women, Zonta is committed to addressing violence against all genders, including children.
She highlighted the club’s efforts in providing legal representation, rehabilitation, and counseling for victims.
Similarly, the President of Zonta Club 1, Zontian Christiana Nnanna, described the annual commemoration as a continuous and necessary effort to remind both victims and perpetrators of the need to eliminate violence.
She, however, encouraged women who are financially empowered, to support their households and urged men to take responsibility for their roles in the family, stressing that this cooperation would foster peace in the home and society at large.
Former President of Zonta Club 1, Zontian Olabisi Awosanya, called on fathers to prioritize the education, care, and empowerment of their daughters. She stated that setting this example would inspire societal change and contribute to the elimination of violence globally.
On her part, Former President of Zonta Club 2, Professor Tinu Agunloye, warned about the health hazards of child pregnancies, including the risk of obstetric fistula, which causes long-term trauma for victims. She advocated for the use of dialogue and communication to resolve disputes and called for an end to workplace and political discrimination against women.
President-elect of Zonta Club 1, Zontian Agbejade Bobola, urged women experiencing violence to speak out and seek help. She also noted that the Zonta Clubs of Ibadan have supported victims through therapy, pro bono legal services, and medical checkups. According to Zonta’s records, one in three women faces abuse, highlighting the urgent need for action.
Addressing misconceptions about the club’s mission, Zontian Olugbemide Abimbola clarified that Zonta encourages women and girls to seek empowerment, not to reject submission in marriage.
She also commended recent progress, such as allowing women to sign consent forms for caesarean sections without requiring their husbands’ approval.
Bushrou Gaza, a member of the International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA), Ibadan Chapter, invited victims of domestic violence, child abandonment, and other forms of abuse to visit their office at Iyaganku. She assured victims of confidentiality, support, and mediation, and promised that unresolved cases would be pursued in court.
Zonta Clubs of Ibadan remain at the forefront of advocacy against gender-based violence, working tirelessly to ensure justice, empowerment, and support for victims across the community.
