VAPP ACT Implementation: Media Experts Unite to Combat Misogyny and Online Gender-Based Violence in Nigeria
In today’s digital age, where online platforms dominate our lives, a sinister shadow looms large: the escalating threat of misogyny and online gender-based violence (OGBV).
Amidst this crisis, a recent move by a Nigerian Senator to repeal the Violence Against Persons Prohibition Act (VAPP Act) – rather than strengthening it – has sounded the alarm. With only 19 out of 36 states having domesticated the VAPP Act, the need for collective action is urgent.
This special report by LightRay! Media written by Oluwaseyi Elizabeth Jimoh brings together journalists from across Nigeria and diverse media organizations to confront the dangers of misogyny and explore solutions to combat this growing menace. Join us as we shine a light on the dark realities of OGBV and champion the cause for a safer, more inclusive society.
In a bold move to combat the growing menace of misogyny and online gender-based violence (OGBV) in Nigeria, Journalists For Christ (JFC), the Association for Christian Journalists and allied professionals hosted a virtual discourse session on 24 August 2024. The event, facilitated by multi-award-winning investigative journalist, women’s advocate, and author of the book “Distortion,” Lady E. Ejiro Umukoro, in collaboration with JFC Project Officer, Blessing Oladunjoye, aimed to raise awareness and counter the effects of misogynistic activities and OGBV.
Umukoro defined misogyny as “hatred, prejudice, acts of hate, and disgust” that degrade and undermine women. She explained that OGBV involves active, aggressive harassment and prejudice targeted against women online, citing examples like cyberstalking, bullying, doxxing, and deepfakes.
In this focus discussion, a Participant “A” shared how misogyny manifested itself at an event her single friend attended. She described a situation where “My friend, a single lady, felt embarrassed during a singles seminar when referred to as ‘Mama’ while asking her to say something to her children, whereas she was a single lady hoping to find a husband.”
While Participant “B” narrated how misogynistic activities are seen in sexual betrayals and harassment in the workplace, especially in media houses dominated by men.
And Participant “C” narrated how the digital media revolution since the COVID-19 pandemic has increased misogyny, citing experiences across media practitioners and the political environment in her state.
Creating awareness and countering misogynistic activities and OGBV is essential in a constantly evolving, digitally inclined society. Journalists For Christ (JFC) embarked on a discourse session to bring attention to Misogyny and OGBV.
Umukoro explained that “misogyny and OGBV describe hatred, prejudice, and disgust on online platforms, encompassing attitudes that degrade, demean, and undermine women.”
In addressing the menace of OGBV and related offences, participants proposed the solutions, including:
- Campaign awareness and education on women supporting women
- Reporting lines for office-related OGBV
- HR managers protecting staff from power dynamics
- Understanding legal frameworks and rights
- Raising awareness and education
- Home upbringing and mindset reorientation
- Intentional actions and mentorship
- Developing self-confidence and courage
- Reporting assaulters and documenting evidence
- Mothers’ role in training boys to respect girls
- Stop of forms of men on women misogyny and women on women misogyny.
- Don’t keep silent when misogyny is being exhibited no matter how highly placed or important the perpetrator are.
The project advisor, Mr. Sanmi Falobi concluded the session, encouraging participants to create awareness using the hashtag #EndMisogynyNG, marking the beginning of a broader advocacy movement.
In conclusion, the discourse session highlighted the urgent need to address misogyny and OGBV in Nigeria. By working together and implementing the proposed solutions, we can create a safer, more inclusive society for all. Let us continue to raise awareness and advocate for change using #EndMisogynyNG.
Join the movement against misogyny and OGBV:
- Share your story using #EndMisogynyNG
- Support organizations working to combat OGBV
- Educate yourself and others on the impact of misogyny
- Demand policy changes to protect women’s rights
Together, we can create a safer, more inclusive society for all.
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