Dutse, Oct. 17, 2025
Centre for Information Technology and Development (CITAD), has organised a one-day sensitisation to engage traditional and religious leaders on the role of men in curbing out Gender Based Violence.
In his welcome address, the Program Officer for CITAD, Mr Sani Sa’idu, said the forum was organised under the Male Feminist Network project(MFN), with support from the Ford Foundation, through the Centre for Leadership, Strategy, and Development (CLSD).
He explained that the aim of the event was to have an honest and respectful conversation about how men and boys can become true allies in ending gender-based violence in communities.
According to him, “Our cultures and our religions teach respect, compassion, and justice.These values guide us to protect, not harm; to support, not silence; and to stand for fairness in all relationships.
“CITAD believes that addressing GBV requires the voice and leadership of men, not to dominate, but to partner.
“When men speak against violence, when fathers support the education of their daughters, when community leaders challenge harmful practices, change becomes possible,” Saidu said.
He further highlighted that through the project, the centre aims to build a network of male champions who understand that ending GBV strengthens families and provided peace in society.
The officer expressed gratitude to The Ford Foundation and Centre-LSD for supporting the cause to end Gender Based Violence.
While speaking, a traditional ruler in the Dutse Emirate, Alh.Salihi Sambo, the Sarkin Yaran Dutse, said the effort to bring men on board in addressing GBV is timely.
He said that men are surely the drivers of the society and their voices and effort will count in the course of addressing GBV.
Also, a Police Officer, Mr Muhammed Fagge who is a prosecutor, explained that cases of violence against women and children is increasing by the day.
He said that it is worrisome that the society especially in Northern Nigeria, prefers to hide the criminals who violates the rights of women and children.
“If the suspects are arraigned in court, they usually get light punishment and get away scot free in a little time or after payment of meagre fine, thereby returning with strength to commit worse crime,” he said.
He advised communities and families of affected victims to avoid making appeals to hide the crimes in the communities.
While speaking, the Secratary Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) Jigawa stats Chapter, Mr Bala Alhamdu, expressed concern over the negligence of communities towards addressing GBV.
He said that if people will instill in their children the fear of God, a lot of violence and criminal acts would reduce from the society.
Alhamdu appealed for marriage counselling to all sects, so that couple would know their marital responsibilities and uphold them to avoid violence in matrimonies.
Non-governmental organisations and Civil society bodies at the function also appealed for stiffer punishment for criminals.
The Chairman Civil society organization Coalition in Jigawa state Mr Musbahu Basurka, called for synergy in addressing GBV issues.
He however, called on the government to strengthen women empowerment in order to reduce girl child hawking, a trade that makes many young girls vulnerable for abuse and violence.
Aisha Ahmed ✍ from Dutse
