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From Uchenna Inya, Abakaliki
The Ebonyi State Government has called for men’s inclusivity in the fight against Gender Violence (GBV).
The state said war against the menace has reached a decisive point where inclusivity and shared responsibility are crucial for lasting change, noting that true progress cannot be achieved without active participation of men and boys in the fight.
Special Assistant to Governor Francis Nwifuru on Gender-Based Violence, Nkwegu Ekwutosi Maryann, made the disclosure in Abakaliki, the state capital, while addressing journalists.
She said the state was working with civil society organisations, traditional leaders, youth groups, and community stakeholders to deepen male involvement in GBV prevention and response.
“The fight against Gender-Based Violence (GBV) in Ebonyi State has reached a decisive point where inclusivity and shared responsibility are crucial for lasting change. While great progress has been made in empowering women and girls, true progress cannot be achieved without the active participation of men and boys.
“GBV is not a women’s issue alone, it is a men and women’s issue that needs societal concern and demands collective action. The recent case involving the General Overseer of Champion Cathedral, Abakaliki, Bishop Onyeagoziri Ndubueze, currently in detention for alleged exploitation, underscores the urgent need for reorientation on positive masculinity, reminding us that real strength is rooted in empathy, respect, and responsibility.
“Recognising this, the Ebonyi State Government, through the Office of the Special Assistant to the Governor on Gender-Based Violence (GBV), is working with civil society organisations, traditional leaders, youth groups, and community stakeholders to deepen male involvement in GBV prevention and response.
“Ongoing initiatives include sensitisation campaigns, male advocacy clubs, community dialogues, and mentorship programmes that promote positive masculinity and partnership in building safer homes and communities. Evidence shows that when men are engaged, incidents of domestic violence and abuse decrease significantly.
“The government reaffirms its commitment, under the visionary leadership of His Excellency, Governor Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru, to creating an Ebonyi, where both men and women work together to end GBV, reflecting the People’s Charter of Needs anchored on peace, equity, and social inclusion.
“We urge traditional rulers, faith-based leaders, youth organisations, and the media to join hands in amplifying this message. Every man’s voice counts, silence is complicity, action is partnership.
“Together, let us build an Ebonyi where gender justice is not a privilege but a right, and where men and women stand side by side for a violence-free society”, Nkwegu said.
