Jimoh Elizabeth Oluwaseyi
Mrs. Oruoma Odum, a Senior Mass Communication Lecturer at the Nigerian Institute of Journalism, has revealed that education is a crucial tool for women to break free from the shackles of gender-based violence.
The seasoned lecturer made the remark during the public presentation of a report on “Trends and Contexts of Misogyny and Tech-Facilitated Gender-Based Violence (TFGBV)” on December 5, 2024.
The event was organized by Journalist For Christ (JFC) in partnership with the World Association For Christ Communication (WACC).
Speaking further at the event, Odum passionately shared her journey, illustrating how education has shaped her life and career.
“Education has made me more bold and fearless,” she stated, reflecting on her early experiences at the Guardian Newspaper. “It has empowered me to challenge the outdated stereotype that women should only be heard and not seen.”
Emphasizing the need for foundational change, Odum argued that the battle against gender-based violence must start at home.
“The issue of gender-based violence is deeply rooted in our society, often beginning with the damaging belief that a woman’s place is in the kitchen,” she explained. “This is where we must first address issues of gender rights.”
In her address, she advocated for a proactive approach, encouraging mothers to teach boys essential life skills such as cooking and cleaning. “This will help transform the attitudes and beliefs that demean women,” she urged, highlighting the importance of early intervention in reshaping societal norms.
To combat misogyny, a pervasive prejudice against women, Odum outlined several strategies, including rehabilitation for perpetrators, public education on the dangers of child prostitution and trafficking, and fostering supportive relationships among men to dismantle harmful stereotypes. “All forms of gender-based violence are social constructs, often reinforced by phrases and words that objectify women,” she noted.
Challenging women who may inadvertently support online gender-based violence, Odum called for courage and resilience. “I tell women you must be tough against those who think they are ‘Alpha and Omega,’” she asserted, warning of the grave effects of tech-facilitated gender-based violence, including stigmatization, depression, and social isolation.
Pastor Evans Emmanuel also contributed to the discussion, addressing misconceptions about the Bible’s role in perpetuating gender-based violence. “God doesn’t evaluate us based on gender,” he stated, citing how Jesus empowered women in a patriarchal context. Emmanuel recalled the impact of misogyny on his mother’s education, fueling his passion for eradicating all forms of gender-based violence. “This deep-seated anger drives me to champion this cause,” he declared.
Mr. Gbenga Adefaye, Provost of the Nigerian Institute of Journalism, praised the advocacy efforts of JFC President Mr. Lekan Otufodunrin. “This is a very good initiative,” he said, acknowledging the need for self-reflection among individuals who may unconsciously harbor misogynistic attitudes.
Mrs. Funmi Falobi, JFC’s Gender Advocacy Initiatives, further outlined potential responses to misogyny, emphasizing the importance of awareness, education, and engaging men in the conversation. “We need to sensitize boys to respect and value girls and women,” she stated, underscoring the significance of positive role models.
Concluding the session, Falobi highlighted critical next steps, including the production of digital counter-narratives and strategic alliances under the #EndMisogynyNG initiative to combat misogyny and TFGBV.
“We must focus on capacity-building for journalists to promote gender-sensitive reporting,” she emphasized.
Betty Abah, founder of the Centre for Children’s Health Education, Orientation and Protection, commended the efforts of special guest Mr. Femi Adesina and JFC Project Coordinator Lekan Otunfodunrin.
“These are men liberated from the mental shackles of misogyny who support us in this fight,” she noted, emphasizing the need for collaboration rather than confrontation.
In his closing remarks, Mr. Femi Adesina, former spokesman for President Muhammadu Buhari, urged attendees to disseminate the JFC report widely.
“We must ensure that perpetrators are held accountable for their actions before they escalate into uncontrollable vices,” he stated firmly.
The event, moderated by project assistant Ms. Blessing Osemobor, marked the first gathering in the newly completed building at the Nigerian Institute of Journalism, commissioned just two months ago.
The presentation attracted students, lecturers, media practitioners, and social media enthusiasts, all encouraged to advocate for gender equity and contribute to the ongoing fight against misogyny and tech-facilitated gender-based violence.
As the session concluded, participants left inspired, ready to preach, publish, and propagate the critical message of gender equity in the society.
