Group seeks abolition of harmful traditions, customs to women

Etim Ekpimah

A rights group in Nigeria, Center for Human Rights and Accountability Network (CHRAN), has urged the government at all levels to abolish traditions and customs that are harmful to women in Nigeria.

This was contained in a statement signed by the group’s Director and Secretary, Otuekong Franklyn Isong and Mr Christopher Ekpo, in Uyo on Friday.

According to the statement, any customary law contrary to public policy or repugnant to natural justice, equity, and good conscience, stands no grounds in contemporary society and must be discarded.

Isong stated that the theme of this year’s celebration is: “Invest in women: Accelerate progress,” which reminds everyone that there is a need to invest in girlchild and women. He added that their progress is society’s progress.

“Achieving gender equality and women’s well-being in all aspects of life is more crucial than ever if we want to create prosperous economies and a healthy planet.

However, we are facing a key challenge: the alarming $360 billion annual deficit in gender-equality measures by 2030”, Isong claims.

Isong condemned women abused by their husbands and, urged such couples to resolve their grievances amicably rather than resort to fists.

The five critical areas listed in joint actions are, “Investing in women, a human rights issue: Time is running out. Gender equality is the greatest human rights challenge, benefiting everyone.

“Ending poverty: Due to the COVID pandemic and conflicts, 75 million more people have fallen into severe poverty since 2020. Immediate action is crucial to prevent over 342 million women and girls living in poverty by 2030.

“Implementing gender-responsive financing: Conflicts and rising prices may lead 75% of countries to cut public spending by 2025, negatively impacting women and their essential services.

“Shifting to a green economy and care society: The current economic system disproportionately affects women. Advocates propose a shift to a green economy and care society to amplify women’s voices.

“Supporting feminist change-makers: Despite leading efforts, feminist organizations receive only 0.13% of official development assistance.”

This International Women’s Day, let’s unite to transform challenges into opportunities and shape a better future for all!