From Lateef Dada, Osogbo
The United Nations Women has partnered with Nasrul-Lahi-il Fathi Society of Nigeria (NASFAT) to end violence against women and girls in Nigeria.
NASFAT zonal chairman in Ogun, Olaniyi Gbadebo and the Osun zonal missioner, Dr Busari Kamorudeen, at a conference of Imams held at Adolak hotel, Osogbo, Osun State, at the weekend, agreed to map out strategies to address the harmful social norms and misinterpretation of religious texts that perpetuate and reinforce violence against women and girls.
The conference with the theme: “Muslim Scholars as Agents of Positive Co-existence: Realities and Expectations,” aims to equip 350 religious’ leaders (Imams) with relevant skills for improving the spiritual and social relationships of the society’s members and also leverage UN Women’s guidance to foster a safe and just society for all.
The religious leaders noted the pervasive issue of violence against women and girls (VAWG) and demanded sustainable action. “We pledge to sustainably incorporate teachings that emphasize the dignity, rights and respect for women and girls in our sermons on Fridays and weekly Asalatu by highlighting the Islamic principles that condemn violence and promote kindness, compassion, and justice towards all individuals, especially women and girls.
“We commit to providing spiritual and emotional support to survivors of VAWG, ensuring they feel safe and valued within our Society. We will guide survivors towards accessing necessary services, such as counselling, healthcare and legal assistance.
“We support and advocate for the implementation and enforcement of laws and policies that protect women and girls from violence by working with relevant authorities and organizations to ensure that perpetrators of VAWG are held accountable for their actions.
“We will demonstrate zero tolerance for VAWG within our own actions and decisions by using our influence to challenge and change harmful practices and beliefs within the community.
“We will sustain opportunities for peer learning and experience sharing on best practices for transforming harmful social norms and increasing women’s participation in public life,” Nasfat said.