The Imo State Chapter of the Nigerian Bar Association Women Forum (NBAWF) held its general meeting on July 16th, with an impressive turnout of members who gathered not just for fellowship but also for a powerful lecture on a critical social issue.
The highlight of the event was a thought-provoking lecture titled: “Gender-Based Violence: Examining the Impact on Women and Girls, Particularly in Crisis Areas,” delivered by Mrs. Chinaka Sunday-Iherue, LLM, ACArb, a Chief State Counsel with the Imo State Ministry of Justice and the State Lead for the forum.
In her address, Mrs. Sunday-Iherue described Gender-Based Violence (GBV) as a pervasive issue that affects virtually everyone — either directly or through someone they know. She explained that the term “GBV” is broader and more inclusive than violence against women alone, noting that it encompasses violence against men and gender-nonconforming individuals when such violence stems from one’s gender identity or presentation.
She categorized GBV into several forms, including:
- Sexual violence
- Physical violence
- Psychological violence (emotional or mental)
Each form, she noted, can be experienced either in isolation or simultaneously, compounding the trauma of victims.
She further identified the major causes of GBV as:
- Poverty
- Conflict and war
- Cultural and religious norms and beliefs
- Displacement
- Breakdown of essential services
- Stress within the home
To prevent GBV, she outlined several proactive strategies, including:
- Empowering men, women, and children
- Creating safe spaces for women and children
- Providing quality education
- Engaging male allies in prevention efforts
- Including women in decision-making roles
- Establishing comprehensive GBV services swiftly during times of crisis
- Offering holistic support to survivors—covering their safety, health, and psychological recovery
In conclusion, Mrs. Sunday-Iherue recommended intensified sensitization campaigns across schools, churches, communities, local governments, and the state at large to stem the tide of GBV.
The lecture was well-received, with participants expressing gratitude to the resource person and highlighting its relevance to the upcoming August Meeting, where grassroots sensitization is expected to take center stage.
The event was widely described as both enriching and impactful—a testament to NBAWF Imo’s commitment to advocacy, education, and societal transformation.
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