The rising cases of gender-based violence, ritual killings, and other forms of abuse against women have become a cause for alarm across Nigeria,
In Kwara State, the situation has escalated with horrifying incidents that highlight deep-seated societal issues, weak law enforcement, and cultural indifference toward women’s rights.
To tackle this growing crisis, the National Association of Seadogs (Pyrates Confraternity), Kwara-Kogi states branch, is organising a special radio discussion programme on International Women’s Day. The event, themed ‘Her Voice, Her Future,’ aims to amplify women’s voices, demand policy reforms, and rally the community against all forms of violence and discrimination.
In this interview, KEHINDE AKINPELU, the Branch Chairman of the association speaks with few selected journalists in Ilorin on the rationale behind the programme, the role of advocacy groups in addressing gender-based violence, and the urgent steps needed to secure a safer future for women in Kwara State.
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Why did the National Association of Seadogs decide to initiate this International Women’s Day discussion?
As an advocacy-driven organisation, we believe that wherever and whenever a community needs a hand, a Pyrate should be the first to stand up. The growing cases of violence against women in Kwara State, especially ritual-related killings, demand urgent action. This programme is our way of bringing together stakeholders, policymakers, traditional rulers, and the public to discuss solutions and commitments that will lead to lasting change.
The sub-theme of this event is ‘Her Voice, Her Future.’ What inspired this choice, and what message are you hoping to convey?
The theme underscores a fundamental truth: a woman’s future is tied to her ability to speak up and be heard.
If we truly want a society where women are safe, empowered, and treated with dignity, then we must create an environment where their voices are amplified, not suppressed.
This programme is designed to ensure that women’s concerns are not just discussed but translated into action.
How does this initiative align with your organisation’s broader advocacy work on human rights and social justice?
The National Association of Seadogs has always stood for justice, human dignity, and community service.
From campaigns on widow protection to public engagement on social equity, we have consistently worked to give a voice to the vulnerable.
This initiative is another step in our broader mission – to ensure that no one suffers in silence and that justice is not just an abstract ideal but a lived reality.
You’ll recall we had a large gathering of widows at the NUJ Press Centre at the commemoration of World Widows Day last year. At the end of the event, we submitted a draft Bill –
“The Kwara State Widows’ Protection and Welfare Bill, 2024” for consideration by the esteemed Kwara State House of Assembly.
Our proposed bill includes provisions that would not only ensure widows’rights to inherit and own property without discrimination but the establishment of a Widows’ Protection and Welfare Board to monitor and enforce the provisions of the bill. We believe the enactment of this Bill would signify Kwara State’s commitment to upholding justice and equality for all its citizens, particularly those who are most vulnerable. We also thought that it would align the state’s legal framework with international human rights standards and best practices.
There have been recent tragic cases of ritual-related violence against women in Kwara State. What is your reaction to these incidents, and how do you think they reflect larger societal issues?
These incidents are not just tragic; they are a stain on our collective humanity.
The fact that women can be targeted, murdered, and discarded like objects in ritual killings exposes a deep societal failure – failure of law enforcement, cultural attitudes, and moral responsibility.
It is a wake-up call that we must do more to protect the most vulnerable and challenge the harmful beliefs that enable these crimes.
What role should advocacy groups like yours play in tackling gender-based violence and promoting women’s empowerment?
I believe we must be at the forefront of change by speaking out – bringing these issues to public consciousness through programmes like this. We must engage with policymakers – pushing for stronger laws and policies that hold perpetrators accountable. We must collaborate more with religious and traditional leaders – challenging harmful sociocultural norms that enable violence against women and support the victims, ensuring that survivors of violence have access to justice, rehabilitation, and empowerment opportunities.
Beyond this discussion programme, what practical steps do you think communities, religious leaders, and policymakers should take to prevent violence against women?
Awareness alone is not enough; we need action. Communities must break the culture of silence – speak up against abuse and support survivors.
More importantly, religious leaders must preach accountability, not blind submission to harmful traditions. Again, policymakers must strengthen enforcement, passing laws is not enough; they must be enforced without bias or favouritism. Lastly, security agencies must prioritize cases of violence against women, ensuring swift and just prosecution of offenders.
Do you think Kwara State has adequate legal protections for women, or do we need stronger policies?
Some legal protections exist, but they are either weak or poorly enforced. Laws against rape, domestic violence, and ritual killings must be reviewed and strengthened. Perpetrators should know that there are real consequences for their actions.
More importantly, we must ensure that victims have access to justice without fear of intimidation or stigma.
Are there plans to engage with lawmakers, traditional rulers, or security agencies on this issue beyond the media advocacy?
Absolutely. This discussion is just one step in a larger advocacy campaign. Our association plans to submit a formal petition to the Kwara State House of Assembly demanding stronger laws and better enforcement. We did it some time back on widows rights and protection, like I said.
We want to engage traditional rulers and religious leaders to promote gender-sensitive teachings and community action and partner with security agencies to establish a rapid response mechanism for violence against women.
We are determined to ensure that this advocacy leads to real, measurable change.
How can the average citizen contribute to this cause? What should individuals do when they witness gender-based violence or discrimination?
Every citizen has a role to play. If you witness gender-based violence, we must speak out – Silence protects the abuser, not the victim. It’s important that we report incidents, call local authorities or human rights organisations.
It is important that we support survivors; encourage them to seek justice and not suffer in silence and, it is also important that we educate others – Challenge harmful attitudes in our family, workplace, and religious community.
What is your final message to the government, traditional institutions, and the people of Kwara State regarding the rights and safety of women and girls?
My message is simple: To the
government – You have a duty to protect women and enforce justice. No one should get away with harming a woman.
To traditional and religious leaders – Challenge harmful practices and stand for justice. To the people of Kwara State – Silence is complicity.
If you see something, speak up! Protect your daughters, your sisters, your wives.
The National Association of Seadogs is here today, and we will be here tomorrow, ensuring that women’s voices are heard, their rights are upheld, and their future is secured.
We call on all stakeholders, policymakers, and community leaders to join this movement and ensure that every woman’s voice is heard, and her future is secured.
