Ekiti First Lady Leads Advocacy Walk to Mark End of 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence

Ekiti First Lady Leads Advocacy Walk to Mark End of 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence

Today in Ado-Ekiti, the wife of the state governor, Dr Olayemi Oyebanji, spearheaded an awareness-raising walk through major streets and markets as part of the closing activities for this year’s 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence (GBV). The initiative was organised by the state’s Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development together with a network of civil-society groups, community stakeholders and activists, and represents Ekiti State’s public reaffirmation to end violence against women and girls in all its forms — physical, psychological, and increasingly, digital. 

The themed 2025 national campaign — “UNiTE! End Digital Violence Against All Women and Girls” — highlights a growing concern across Nigeria: the rise of technology-facilitated abuse including online harassment, cyber-stalking, revenge pornography and other forms of digital exploitation.  By holding the walk on the campaign’s final day, the event served as both a symbolic and practical call to action — reaffirming that GBV today extends beyond physical spaces and must be confronted both on- and offline.

Participants gathered in steady numbers, carrying banners calling for safety, dignity and equal opportunity for women and girls — in homes, schools, workplaces and online communities. As they moved through crowded markets and busy thoroughfares, the procession attracted the attention of passers-by and sparked dialogue about the urgent need for collective responsibility. Vendors, commuters and shoppers paused to watch, with many applauding the public demonstration and echoing its message: that every citizen has a role to play in dismantling cultures of silence and impunity around GBV.

In her remarks, Dr. Oyebanji recalled the history of the state’s pioneering role: Ekiti was among the first in Nigeria to enact a law banning gender-based violence, over a decade ago.  She reassured citizens that the state government remains committed to building on that foundation — exploring reforms to strengthen survivor-support services, improve reporting mechanisms and ensure effective enforcement of GBV laws. 

Beyond raising awareness, the Advocacy Walk signalled a deeper shift: from isolated interventions to a broader societal commitment. The involvement of multiple stakeholders — government ministries, civil society, community leaders — underscores an understanding that ending GBV requires a sustained, inclusive, and multi-layered approach. Observers note that landmark moments like today help build momentum toward safer, more equitable communities.

As the 16-day global campaign draws to a close, the message carried by the crowd in Ado-Ekiti remains clear: progress depends on collective vigilance, constant advocacy, and the courage to stand up for the rights of every woman and girl — whether in the marketplace, on campus, or online.

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