Gender-Based Violence: Online abuse as dangerous as physical violence, Grace Ike warns

The Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), FCT Council, Grace Ike, has urged Nigerians to unite in the fight against gender-based violence as the world observes the 2025 edition of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence.

She also expressed concern over the increasing cases of digital abuse against women and girls, calling on stakeholders to treat online harassment with the same seriousness as physical violence.

In a statement on Wednesday, Ike said this year’s campaign aligns with the UNiTE global theme, “End Digital Violence Against All Women and Girls.”

Ike explained that the theme, which runs from November 25 to December 10, calls for stronger collective action to end both physical and online violence and to create safer communities and online spaces.

Recalling her experience during the NUJ FCT 2024 election, she revealed that she suffered targeted gender-based harassment aimed at silencing her and discouraging her candidacy. She said the experience showed how deeply rooted gender-based violence remains, extending from physical attacks to psychological, social, and digital abuse.

She stressed that no one should be subjected to such treatment and called on society to dismantle structures that enable abuse in any form.

Ike noted that violence against women and girls is a major human rights violation that affects victims’ dignity, freedom, and wellbeing, while also weakening community stability. She urged Nigerians to reject abuse, challenge harmful cultural norms, and promote safe spaces at home, in workplaces, and online.

She added that the media has a key role in exposing the realities of gender-based violence, amplifying survivors’ voices, and pushing for justice. According to her, the NUJ FCT Council remains committed to responsible and inclusive reporting that promotes awareness and action.

Ike further called for stronger laws, better support systems for survivors, improved policies against digital abuse, and continuous public education to prevent violence.

She said the campaign should inspire genuine commitment and meaningful action, stressing that ending gender-based and digital violence requires consistent and united efforts from everyone.

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