In a bid to combact women’s right violations in elections and other forms of violence and abuse, the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), Ebonyi State Chapter, have partnered with the Women Situation Room Nigeria, (WSRN).
The chairperson of NAWOJ, Nkechinyere Oginyi, while recieving the group at Dr. Sam Egwu Press Centre, Abakaliki, stated that the partnership will amplify the voices of women and ensure their rights are protected.
Oginyi, who was represented by the state Secretary of NAWOJ, Chinwe Imo-Eze Onwosi, implored the women folks to shy away from unwillingness, intimidation, amongst other barriers that hinder them from actively participating in politics.
The Chairperson outlined NAWOJ’s effort in promoting gender equality, Justice, and women empowerment in Nigeria stressing the importance of women’s participation in peace and security processes according to the United Nations Security Council Resolution 1325.
She applauded the group for their agenda and assured that the women journalists in the state would ensure objectives are achieved.
The Cordinator of the Women Situation Room in Ebonyi, Lorieth Nwafor, said the group’s concept which was first implemented in Liberia in 2011, works to ensure peaceful and credible elections, with a focus on women’s participation
Nwafor, noted that women participate in elections but are often confronted with violence by political actors and their supporters which she said had made many women to lose interest in the nation’s political process.
She described gender based violence and violence against women in elections as human rights violations that undermines the principles of democracy, equality and justice.
“In many societies, women continue to face various forms of violence and discrimination, before, during and after post elections”, Nwafor stated.