IRIAD- The Electoral Hub has expressed concern that the ongoing violence and conflicts across different geopolitical zones of Nigeria has led to widespread sexual violence, including mass abductions of women and schoolgirls particularly in North East and North West of Nigeria.
The Director, IRIAD-The Electoral Hub, Princess Hamman-Obels, in a press statement issued in Abuja to commemorate the International Day for the Elimination of Sexual Violence in Conflict, further said many of these victims have been subjected to rape, sexual slavery, and forced marriage.
She said in 2023, humanitarian service providers registered cases of sexual violence, including sexual slavery, against 296 women, 211 girls, and 4 boys.
According to her, Sexual Violence in Conflict (SVC) or Conflict Related Sexual Violence (CRSV) has devastating impact on individuals, communities, and societies.
“As an organization dedicated to promoting democratic values and human rights, we recognize the significance of this day and the need for collective action to combat sexual violence in conflict areas.
“The International Day for the Elimination of Sexual Violence in Conflict is commemorated annually to honor victims and survivors, raise awareness about the need to put an end to conflict-related sexual violence and acknowledge those who have dedicated their lives to fighting these atrocities.
She further explained that the UN Security Council report on sexual violence in conflict indicated that non-state armed groups continued to abduct women and girls, subjecting them to rape and sexual slavery as a reward for fighters and an incentive for new recruits.
“The report also revealed that as compared to last year, the prevalence of conflicts such as banditry, kidnapping, sectionalist activities, etc., has led to an increased level of conflict-related sexual violence (CRSV).
” We called for immediate action by the government to protect health care services in conflict areas and ensure that survivors receive the comprehensive care and justice.
“Multi-stakeholder approach to addressing CRSV, while urging all stakeholders – the government, international organizations, media, and civil society to work together to create a world free from sexual violence, and where survivors receive the support and justice,” she said.