Ondo govt declares zero tolerance for gender-based violence, focuses on digital abuse

The Ondo state government has declared zero tolerance for all forms of sexual and gender-based violence (GBV) as part of renewed efforts to curb the rising cases of abuse across the state.

Dr. Seun Osamaye, Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, made the declaration at an event heralding the 2025 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence campaign.

Osamaye said the administration of Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa would no longer condone any form of GBV, including rape, defilement, domestic violence, and all forms of sexual or psychological abuse.

She noted that the government remained committed to building an inclusive society “where gender-based violence is not tolerated and where justice is accessible, timely, and uncompromised.”

According to her, this year’s campaign places special emphasis on digital violence, which she described as “silent, pervasive, and often overlooked.”

“Fighting against gender-based violence cannot be achieved effectively if digital violence is ignored,” she said.

Reaffirming the government’s resolve to eradicate all forms of violence against women and girls, Osamaye assured residents that the state would continue to work closely with civil society groups, traditional institutions, security agencies, and development partners to strengthen protection systems.

She added that every woman and girl has the right to live in dignity, safety, and equality, and directed relevant ministries and agencies to reinforce existing frameworks, enhance community sensitisation, and ensure full enforcement of laws safeguarding women and girls.

Osamaye further highlighted the urgency of tackling rising cases of online harassment, cyberstalking, revenge pornography, and other forms of digital abuse targeting women and girls.

“Technology should empower, not endanger our women and girls,” she said.

She announced that the 16-day campaign, scheduled for November 25 to December 10, 2025, will feature a series of activities aimed at raising awareness, strengthening response systems, and fostering collective action statewide.

Key events include the official launch and press briefing alongside the symbolic “Orange the World” illumination at the ministry on Tuesday, November 25, and an awareness walk and roadshow across major streets in Akure on November 26.

She said the campaign is being organised in collaboration with the Ministries of Health and Justice, the Nigeria Police, NSCDC, UNFPA, UNICEF, civil society organisations, traditional rulers, media organisations, and disability groups to ensure wide reach and impact.

The Director of the Ondo State Agency Against Gender-Based Violence, Tunde Emoruwa, also raised alarm over the increasing prevalence of gender-based violence, warning that many victims continue to suffer and die in silence.

He lamented the erosion of moral values and societal discipline, which he said is creating an environment where abuse thrives unchecked.

Emoruwa said the menace is not only rising but “increasing at a geometric rate,” causing devastating harm to families, communities, and society at large.

He, however, called for urgent collective action to halt the growing trend and protect vulnerable groups, especially women and girls.