Women

‘Gender, Equal Opportunity Bill Deserves Support’

Published

14 years ago

August 31, 2012

Times when issues of gender equality are raised, like the
proverbial dry bone story that gets the elderly agitated, it is usually greeted
with disdain and so, considered contemptible.

While some people see the idea as ambiguous, with a disguised
posture that renders its supposed and potential embracers a bit skeptical about
its workability, others consider it an aberration which, of course, should be
nipped in the bud, so that it does not corrode the system eventually.

And like the slave master that would stop at nothing to
ensure the retention of his slaves against the popular clamour for freedom from
slavery and injustice, the whole idea of “gender equality,’ seems to smack of
‘rebellious revolution’ hence condemnable in its entirety.

Perhaps, this distorted notion of an idea devoid of any
sinister suggestion, may have immensely contributed to the delay in adopting a
course that had been ratified some decades ago by the United Nations and
African Union for the good of our polity.

Against this background, the National Coalition on
Affirmative Action (NCAA) Rivers State branch, recently organized a one day
constituency forum on Gender and Equal Opportunities bill basically to
interpret and explain to an understandable term, what the bill represents.

The one day meeting which was graced by Non-governmental
organizations, civil society organisations, politicians, the press and
different women groups brainstormed on the facilitation of the passage of the
Gender and Equal Opportunities Bill in Rivers State, a bill that had already
been passed into laws in many other states of the federation.

The National Coalition on Affirmative Action’s NCAA
sponsored Gender and Equal Opportunities Bill, is not introducing an entirely
strange agenda or doctrine into the system, rather it seeks to incorporate the
provisions of the United Nations Convention on the Elimination of all forms of
Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW) and the protocol to the African charter on
Human and Peoples’ Rights on the Rights of Women in Africa. Both documents
clearly promote the principles of equality and non-discrimination on the basis
of sex. Once domesticated, they both will have the same force of law in
Nigeria.

CEDAW is a 30-article convention which seeks to implement
the principles set forth in the declaration on the elimination of
discrimination against women and to adopt measures required for the elimination
of such discrimination in all its forms and manifestations.

It defines minimum standards and norms for achieving equal
status of men and women and urges government to adopt measures to speed the
attainment of equality and balance between men and women in all spheres of the
society.

The underlying motivation of the convention is to draw
special attention to the disadvantages suffered by women over the years and to
seek specific priority measures to address the imbalances.

As a strategy to address the long history of discrimination
against women and close the historic gap of imbalance between men and women,
CEDAW recommends affirmative action.

The protocol to the African Charter on the Rights of Women
in Africa on the other hand, is a special agreement adopted by African
countries under the African Union. It draws inspiration from the African
charter provisions that enshrine the principle of non-discrimination and
provides for the elimination of discrimination against women and ensure the
protection of the rights of women.

The 32-article document amplifies CEDAW’s provisions and
goes beyond them to expand as well as add to the provisions.

The challenge therefore, is to ensure the domestication of
the two instruments in line with section 12 of the constitution of Nigeria
1979.

Hence the purpose of the Gender and Equal Opportunities Bill
is primarily to give effect to chapters II and IV of the 1999 constitution of
the Federal Republic of Nigeria and the International Conventions on Human
Rights which affirms the principle of non-discrimination and proclaim that all
humans are born equal, in dignity and rights and that everyone is entitled to
all the rights set out without distinction of any kind including distinction
based on sex.

The bill is also expected to give effect to the
domestication of certain aspects of the convention on the elimination of all
forms of discrimination against women and the protocol to the African Charter
on the Right of Women in Africa and the National Gender Policy.

To press home the recommendation of an affirmative action by
CEDAW, as a strategy to address discrimination against women and close the
historic gap of imbalance between men and women, the bill provided that it
shall be mandatory for all organs or agency of government, public or private
institution, commercial or corporate body, community or other entity to ensure:
(1) in the case of political and public sphere, that a minimum of 35 percent of
all offices, positions or appointments is reserved for women.

In the case of employment, credit or other economic sphere
in the public or private, a minimum of 40 percent of all offices, facilities,
positions or appointments is reserved for women.

In the case of educational placement and school enrollment,
including award of scholarships, bursaries or such allocations, a minimum of 50
percent is reserved for women.

In the case of primary school enrolment, all eligible girl
children are to be compulsorily enrolled and retained in school throughout the
school age. In all other cases, a minimum of 35 percent is reserved for women,
etc. As a matter of fact, affirmative action is not new to Nigeria. there are many forms of affirmative action
which are simply planned action of intervention aimed at redressing any
observed and acknowledged imbalance in any given instance. The federal
character and the geographical spread principles which are already entrenched
in the Nigerian constitution were conscious policies to address the perceived
imbalance in the public administration and governance of Nigeria.

Today, the gains of Federal character affirmative action are
evident in spite of the alleged gross misapplication and abuses along the line.

The demand for 35% affirmative action for women is simply
intended to ensure proportionate representation of the marginalised gender (the
women). This implies that the operation of 35% affirmative action for women in
Nigeria will be discontinued as soon as equitable gender balance in governance
is achieved.

It is no gainsaying therefore the fact that affirmative
action has been a popular government instrument and is very democratic in as
much as it is aimed at ensuring equity, justice and development of all
stakeholders in the policy.

So, the 35% (political) affirmative action for women is not
a novel idea and its benefits will not be gender-specific, all Nigerians will
be the better for it in the long run. Its efficacy as an instrument of growth
and development had been attested to by countries which have adopted it.

Therefore, given the anticipated impact of an equitable
women representation in governance, the quick passage of the Gender and Equal
Opportunities bill in Rivers State becomes imperative.

Top on the way forward is the inclusion of female
politicians into the mainstream of the party structures, male dominance of
party structures due largely to the patriarchal and undemocratic nature of
political parties notwithstanding.

Given the central place of the political parties in the
actualisation of this 35 percent representation of women, it becomes important
that parties be lobbied and duly sensitised to see the need to entrench it
within the party so it could be easier to get the National Assembly to include
it in constitutional and electoral reforms.

The task to get the parties to buy into this agenda as well
as lobby for reforms of electoral laws to include proportional representation
thus has to be intensified now if possible outcomes are to be achieved by 2015.
Strategic also is the idea to have women join political parties en masse and
being very knowledgeable about affirmative action so as to be advocates of it
within their parties as well as seek party posts.

The importance of financial empowerment for women cannot be
overemphasised to enable them vie for political offices and moreso, an
intensified advocacy as well as re-orientation of women’s focus from being mere
followers to being decision makers, so they can have a voice on how their
affairs could be handled.

Sylvia ThankGod-Amadi

Women

How to Tackle Child Rape

Published

1 week ago

February 27, 2026

The Tide

Child rape is a profound human rights violation that inflicts lasting physical, emotional, and psychological scars on its victims.

Among the most vulnerable groups, girl children face a disproportionate amount of sexual abuse globally, reflecting deep-rooted societal, cultural, and systemic failures.

Despite international laws and local measures aimed at protecting children, rape and sexual violence against girl children remain a pervasive problem in many parts of the world. The rape of girl children is alarmingly prevalent worldwide.

According to data from the World Health Organization (WHO), one in four girls experiences some form of sexual abuse before the age of 18. This abuse occurs across all socio-economic, cultural, and geographical divides. The underreporting of sexual violence against children, fueled by fear, stigma, and victim-blaming, makes it difficult to grasp the true scale of the problem.

Reports from organizations like UNICEF and Human Rights Watch highlight that in some regions, girl children are specifically targeted due to the belief that they are “pure” or “virgin,” making them more vulnerable to cultural myths that suggest intercourse with a virgin can cure diseases like HIV/AIDS. These deeply harmful beliefs exacerbate the risk for young girls, particularly in countries where educational and legal protections are weak.

A range of factors contributes to the high incidence of rape against girl children, many of which are embedded in patriarchal and misogynistic beliefs. In some cultures, girls are viewed as inferior or subservient to males, making them easy targets for exploitation. The normalization of gender-based violence in some communities means that abuse often goes unnoticed, unreported, or unpunished.

Child marriages, which remain prevalent in some parts of Africa, Asia, and the Middle East, are another contributing factor. When girls are married off as children, they are often exposed to sexual violence under the guise of marital relations. These young brides, who are typically powerless in these situations, often endure repeated sexual abuse from their significantly older husbands.

Additionally, in conflict zones, girl children are disproportionately affected by sexual violence, used as tools of war by armed groups to terrorize communities. Such exploitation results in severe trauma and long-lasting consequences for victims.

Rape and sexual abuse leave devastating effects on a girl child, both physically and mentally. Physically, young girls are not developed enough to handle sexual intercourse, leading to severe injuries, infections, and even death in extreme cases. Many victims also face long-term reproductive health issues, including infertility, sexually transmitted infections (STIs), and complications in future pregnancies.

The psychological toll is equally profound. Victims often suffer from depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and other mental health conditions. The stigma associated with sexual violence further isolates them from their families and communities, leaving them vulnerable to further exploitation or abuse.

The educational consequences are also significant. Many victims drop out of school due to the trauma, fear of facing their abusers, or the stigma attached to rape. This creates a cycle of poverty and dependence, further reducing their life chances.

Access to justice for child rape victims is often fraught with challenges. In many countries, laws around sexual violence are outdated, under-enforced, or not well understood. Law enforcement agencies frequently lack the training or resources to handle cases of child sexual abuse appropriately, leading to further victimization during investigations.

In some cases, cultural practices such as “settling” rape cases between families, or forcing victims to marry their rapists, prevent victims from receiving the justice they deserve. This not only robs the victim of agency but perpetuates a culture of impunity where perpetrators feel empowered to commit further acts of violence.

Additionally, the social stigma surrounding rape prevents many girl children from coming forward. Fear of blame, retaliation, or being ostracized by their communities often keeps victims silent, allowing abusers to continue their crimes unchecked.

Internationally, the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC) and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) both call for an end to all forms of violence against children, including sexual abuse. Organizations such as UNICEF, Plan International, and Save the Children have been instrumental in raising awareness, supporting survivors, and lobbying for stronger laws and protections.

On a national level, many countries have taken steps to strengthen legal frameworks to protect children from sexual violence. Child protection laws, survivor-centered legal reforms, and harsher penalties for offenders have been introduced in several countries. However, effective implementation remains a challenge in many places due to corruption, weak legal systems, and deep-seated cultural barriers.

To truly address the epidemic of child rape, a multi-faceted approach is needed that tackles the root causes of the problem.

Education and Empowerment of girl-children can go a long way in preventing rape cases in the society. Educating girls about their rights, providing them with life skills, and empowering them to speak out against violence are crucial steps in preventing abuse. Equally important is educating boys and men about consent, respect, and gender equality to shift harmful patriarchal norms.

Girls and women need stronger legal protection to escape some the rape cases that occur regularly. Governments must prioritize the implementation of robust child protection laws, ensuring that law enforcement agents are well-trained and sensitized to handle cases of child rape. Special courts for handling cases involving children, victim support services, and protective measures should be readily available to survivors.

If we have to curb child rape menace, community engagement must be included in the process. Engaging communities to change attitudes toward girl-children and dismantling harmful gender norms is essential. Community leaders, religious figures, and educators can play a pivotal role in shifting mindsets and promoting zero tolerance for violence against children.

Furthermore, there is the need for support for survivours of rape. Comprehensive support systems for survivors are critical for the rest of their lives. These include access to psychological counselling, medical care, legal aid, and safe spaces where victims can heal and rebuild their lives. Schools should also provide supportive environments to help victims continue their education without fear of stigma or discrimination.

Global Advocacy and Accountability from World Health Organisation (WHO), UNICEF, and other relevant agencies should as a matter of fact continue to create more awareness and sensitization on the need to save the girl-child. International organizations and governments must continue to advocate for the protection of children’s rights, ensuring that perpetrators are held accountable. Monitoring mechanisms, transparency in legal proceedings, and collaboration between countries are key to fighting transnational issues like child trafficking for sexual exploitation.

It is worrisome to note in this 21st century, as the world is a global village, fully digitalized, when the girl-children should be allowed to showcase their potentials, instead they are trafficked to do jobs that will harm their lives.

Parents particularly, should have the number of children they can cater for. They should also pay attention to the ones they have.

Moreso, the boy-children and the men should be sensitized on the need to stop the menace.

Rape and sexual violence against girl-children is one of the gravest injustices of our time, robbing millions of their childhoods and futures. While progress has been made, there is still much work to be done to protect the most vulnerable among us. It is only through collective action, from governments, communities, families, and international organizations, that we can create a world where girl- children are safe, empowered, and free from violence.

Perpetual Oluchi Izuegbunam

Women

Who Is A Classic Woman?

Published

2 months ago

January 9, 2026

The Tide

A classic woman is one who has identified herself in terms of fashion, occupation or the kind of business she does.

A woman can be classical in the way she entertains her audience in terms of music and movies. You will discover that some female musicians are identified with the kind of music they sing.

A classical woman is one who always wants to appear trendy.

Generally, classical women are normally identified with the kind of things they are involved in.

There are ladies that want to be identified with wearing of shorts (short trousers) in the public. They use it to showcase their beauty. They want to be identified with such things as they see it as socialisation.

Some wear trousers that are so tight just to showcase all the curves they possess.

Consultant stylists and etiquette experts say some fashions won by some persons are inappropriate because of how and when they are won.

A classic woman is supposed to dress properly. She should be able to wear clothes that will not expose hidden parts of her body. When such occurs, then it is indecent dressing.

Ladies should be known for two things, classical and beauty. One can be classic with minimisation. The minimum woman should go is to look good, decent and presentable.

Some ladies like wearing short skirts but no matter how short the skirt is, it should look elegant. The skirt should not be too short like the mini-skirt.

Dressing or fashion depends on the environment the persons finds herself. The kind of clothes won to the office may be different from the one won at home. Likewise, a dress won to a party may be different from the one won too swimming pool.

For one to look classical or decent, body shape should be taken into consideration.

Colours of a particular fashion can make one look odd or nice. Looking model does not mean that one should go naked or dull.

Don’t wear clothes that you need to drag from time to time in order not to expose yourself.

Eunice Choko-Kayode

Women

Emohua Widows Receive Items From Ogbakor Ikwerre California

Published

2 months ago

January 8, 2026

The Tide

A Non-Governmental Organization, (NGO) Ogbakor Ikwerre,California, DBA, Ikwerre Community Association, California, through it’s outreach projects has donated food items to over 300 Widows in Rumuekpe and Rumuji in Emohua Local Government Area of Rivers State.

Speaking during the handover of the items to the women leaders of the communities in Emohua, yesterday, the team leader of the Ogbakor Ikwerre Community Association in California, Dr Christiana Chukumati, said that the donation is an annual event that has been on since 2014.

According to her, the NGO is donating the items among the four local government area of Ikwerre adding that this year is for widows in Rumuekpe and Rumuji communities.

“Today is Rumuekpe and Rumuji communities, next we are going to another Ikwerre local government area also.

” The NGO has been carrying on the activities since 2014 within the

Ikwerre communities”, Dr Chukumati said.

She thanked the Royal father of Rumuekpe, His Royal Highness, Golden Amb. Christian Amadi, Eze Chigu and the Royal Highness of Rumuji and Odegu Kingdom, Ohna Christian Okachineke Elechi Newe-Eli (the xv) for receiving them in their communities.

The team leader also promised the Royal Highness that whenever the NGO has any other items for the communities, she we do well to bring it to them.

Receiving the Ogbakor Ikwerre Community Association in California in Rumuekpe, His Royal Highness Golden Christian Amadi, praised the NGO for funding his clan among the communities.

According to the Highness, my community is the only oil producing community in Emohua Local Government Area of Rivers State, adding that his community is feeding the local government area, the state and the nation.

“I thank my children over there in California for remembering the widows in my Kingdom for the food items they brought.

” I pray to God to help them to do also to other Ikwerre communities.

” I want to tell them also that Rumuekpe Kingdom is till undeveloped.

” As you can see the community is nothing to show to the people, I want to beg the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) and the Rivers State government to come to our aid to develop our community. We are underdeveloped”

“God will bless my children over there in California”, His Royal Highness Amadi prayed.

In her words, the women leader of Rumuekpe community, Comfort Njoku, said that she was happy for the gift items given to them adding that it is not easy to remember the widows.

She explained that in Rumuekpe, the widows have not seen such a gift before and prayed that is only God that will reward them.

“I want to thank the Ogbakor Ikweree Community Association in California for giving us this items in this festival. We thank God for them and the leader of the group, Mrs Chukumati.

” What we received today we have not seen it in our community before for widows”, Mrs Njoku stated.

Meanwhile, in Rumuji community, His Royal Highness, Ohna Christian Okachineke Elechi, said that he lacked words to thank the Ogbakor Ikwerre Community Association in California for the gift to the widows in his communities.

According to him, today is historic in the history of Rumuji community that our children in oversea can remember us, I am very excited and happy over the items.

“I feel very very happy, it is good that our children recognize the widows in my community today.

” I did not know them before but now I know them, I pray to God Almighty to pay them back for their effort and that they will not lack.

“I pray God to continue to bless them in whatever things they are doing” he stated.

Earlier, the oldest woman in Rumuji community, Nletem Josiah, who spoke in her local language interpreted by the woman leader, Agor Leah Onugbom, thanked the Ogbakor Ikwerre Community Association in California for the gift adding that her husband died many years ago that has caused her hardship.

” In my age and these people come and give me these food items, is only God that will bless them for me.

” This Xmas I will eat and be happy so I want to thank them and that my God, God will bless them for me”, Mama Josiah said.

By: Kiadum Edookor