The Zonta Clubs of Ibadan have concluded the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence with a community walk at Bodija Market, Ibadan, Oyo State, on Tuesday, December 10, 2024, emphasizing the urgent need to end all forms of violence against both women and men.
Recall, on November 25, 2024, the clubs marked the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women with an advocacy visit to Aleshinloye Market, Ibadan. During the visit, members distributed handbills and advised traders against child labour, early child marriage, rape, domestic violence, denial of female education, child neglect, and other social vices.
Speaking to Solutions FM correspondent at Bodija Market on Tuesday, the President of Zonta Club 1, Zontian Christianah Nnanna, expressed gratitude for the successful completion of this year’s activities.
She highlighted that the club members, during the period of the activism, educated people on peaceful co-existence, the nurturing of the girl-child, and the importance of not neglecting the boy-child. She urged parents to exhibit good character that children can emulate, emphasizing that such behavior will help strengthen peace in the country.
Although the 16 Days of Activism have officially ended globally, Zontian Nnanna stressed the need for continuous advocacy to reduce violence in the society. She encouraged victims to seek help by reaching out to Zonta through the contact number: 07057787377.
The President of Zonta Club 2, Zontian Eniola Oyedele, represented by the President-elect of Zonta Club 2, Zontian Olugbemide Abimbola, reiterated the clubs’ commitment to fighting child labour, abortion, rape, and all forms of violence, which was re-echoed during their activities in Aleshinloye and Bodija Markets.
Former President of Zonta Club 1, Zontian Temitayo Alabi, addressed the issue of marital rape, encouraging men and women to respect their partners’ feelings and choices regarding conjugal obligations. She emphasized the importance of sensitizing men about violence against women and girls, adding that Zonta stands firmly against gender inequality and all forms of violence.
Another member of Zonta Club 1, Zontian Zainab Yusuf, urged parents to prioritize raising both their male and female children with equal focus on proper upbringing, morals, and responsibilities. She pointed out that well-raised girls often marry poorly trained boys, which can corrupt their values and lead to violence.
Former President of Zonta Club 1, Zontian Olabisi Awosanya, warned against parental neglect, especially in monitoring children’s academics and general lives. She stressed that neglected children are often vulnerable and exposed to exploitation. She also highlighted the importance of open communication between parents and children to help them confidently discuss their challenges and avoid harmful influences.
Some women at Bodija Market expressed the view that, given the heavy burden on the female gender—shouldering responsibilities, managing households, raising children, and balancing their business or career—they deserve to receive a salary.
Others suggested that the club approach children hawking in the market and ask to be led to their parents to caution them and advise against exposing their children to danger. Some also shared accounts of ongoing abuse in their communities and pledged to reach out for support.
Zonta Clubs of Ibadan began the 16 days of activism Against Gender-Based Violence on the November 25, 2024 – December 10, 2024.
