News
Survey Exposes Alarming Increase in Sexual Violence Against Women and Girls in Nigerian Communities
A recent comprehensive survey focusing on sexual violence against women has revealed a distressing rise in incidents within various Nigerian communities.
The survey, conducted across three Nigerian states—Enugu, Nasarawa, and Kaduna—has shown that nearly 49 percent of women and girls under the age of 40 have experienced some form of sexual abuse.
Named “Kasa,” which means “voices” in the local language, this survey aimed to amplify the stories of those affected by violence, thereby catalyzing actions against this issue. The findings also brought to light that approximately 80 percent of women aged 60 and above have faced sexual violence at some point in their lives.
Presenting the survey’s findings during a virtual press conference, Christy Asala, the technical expert, stressed that this research offered a platform to hear from women of diverse backgrounds, capturing their encounters with sexual violence.
From the African Women Development Fund (AWDF), Asala expressed deep worry regarding the collected data, underscoring that many women living through violence might not even realize their predicament.
“The data from the survey is concerning due to its significant numbers. Respondents shared their painful experiences of sexual abuse during the listening sessions,” she conveyed.
Funded by the African Women Development Fund, the survey showcased that women and girls primarily demand immediate preventive and corrective actions to protect females from such violence. The surveyed individuals also called for stringent penalties for those responsible for sexual violence and urged law enforcement agencies to ensure justice.
Meanwhile, Charles Jang, a Research, Monitoring, and Evaluation Officer at Cognito who participated in the survey, pointed out the challenges young females face when reporting incidents of sexual violence.
“Breaking the culture of silence is a struggle for many, and even when they do report, the procedures often fall short. The Ministry of Justice or law enforcement officers sometimes fail to follow through,” he noted.
Onyinye Mamah, coordinator of the survey in Enugu State, emphasized the need for enhanced mechanisms to eliminate gender violence across Nigeria, especially in Enugu. Mamah, who heads the Heroin Women Foundation in the state, called for robust reporting systems as cases frequently go unnoticed, leaving victims without recourse.
“While reporting to the Ministry of Justice, the Police, or other agencies, the seriousness isn’t always taken as it should be, unlike NGOs. NGOs can provide limited rehabilitation but lack the authority to punish offenders,” she highlighted.
The survey, carried out by the White Ribbon Alliance of Kenya in Nigeria, Ghana, and Senegal, sheds light on a pressing issue that demands collective efforts for effective resolution.
Investigations by Nigerian Concord Newspaper reveal that the Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Shippers Council, Mr. Pius Akutah, has allegedly misappropriated public funds for a lavish lifestyle.
According to our findings, within months of assuming office, Akutah allegedly purchased a bulletproof SUV valued at approximately N850 million. In addition, he is reported to have acquired over twenty exotic SUVs for use as a convoy.
Akutah is also said to have acquired multiple high-value properties, including three in Abuja’s Maitama and Asokoro districts worth over N2 billion, and two in Lagos’ Banana Island valued at N1.8 billion. These acquisitions appear far beyond the scope of his official salary and allowances.
Further investigation suggests that Akutah may be using public funds to support political ambitions, including allegedly grooming militants across 23 local government areas in Benue State for a potential 2027 gubernatorial bid.
Staff of the Shippers Council reportedly claim that Akutah frequently accesses the council’s treasury without proper authorization. Some insiders have indicated that a petition will soon be filed with the EFCC, ICPC, and the Presidency to report his alleged misconduct.
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Investigations by Nigerian Concord Newspaper reveal that the Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Shippers Council, Mr. Pius Akutah, has allegedly misappropriated public funds for a lavish lifestyle.
According to our findings, within months of assuming office, Akutah allegedly purchased a bulletproof SUV valued at approximately N850 million. In addition, he is reported to have acquired over twenty exotic SUVs for use as a convoy.
Akutah is also said to have acquired multiple high-value properties, including three in Abuja’s Maitama and Asokoro districts worth over N2 billion, and two in Lagos’ Banana Island valued at N1.8 billion. These acquisitions appear far beyond the scope of his official salary and allowances.
Further investigation suggests that Akutah may be using public funds to support political ambitions, including allegedly grooming militants across 23 local government areas in Benue State for a potential 2027 gubernatorial bid.
Staff of the Shippers Council reportedly claim that Akutah frequently accesses the council’s treasury without proper authorization. Some insiders have indicated that a petition will soon be filed with the EFCC, ICPC, and the Presidency to report his alleged misconduct.
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I am writing to felicitate with Your Excellency, Atku Abubakar, GCON, former Vice-President of Nigeria (Zege Mule u Tiv & Wazirin Adamawa)
on the occasion of your 79th birthday anniversary.
I join your teeming admirers globally in celebrating you on this special day, an adorable Statesman and my Boss.
I recall with nostalgia, how countless generations have benefited from your generosity, wealth of experience and benevolence including being my key benefactor even as a young lawyer for my professional success.
Your Excellency, may your special day be filled with grandeur befitting your illustrious career.
I wish you continued success, prosperity, and an unending stream of accolades.
It takes a remarkable kind of fortitude to remain active in public life well into one’s golden years. Your dedication and patriotism remain truly exceptional.
May you enjoy a day of reflection on your many years of fruitful service to humanity. It is my prayer that God Almighty grants you many more healthy, fruitful, and fulfilling years ahead, and continues to endow you with wisdom, strength, and the grace to keep contributing to our nation-building.
Happy Birthday, Your Excellency.
Michael Kaase Aondoakaa SAN.
Former Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice
TAU reaffirms commitment to globally competitive learning
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