Edo State Government, as part of efforts to end all forms gender-based violence in the state, has partnered with a domestic violence survivor, Louisa Eikhomun-Agbonkhase, on a book to educate residents on the dangers of such acts and enlighten victims of some laws enshrined in the state that protect them from abuse.
The pre-launch of the book, “Surviving Domestic Violence in Relation to Laws on Protection in Nigeria,” was held recently in Benin City, the Edo State capital, as part of activities lined up for the 16 days of activism to end violence against women and girls in Nigeria, which started on November 25, 2020.
Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Social Development and Gender Issues, Pastor Mrs. Dorcas Idehen, noted that the book will educate the populace, especially survivors of gender-based violence on the need to speak out and expose perpetrators.
Idehen, who was represented by the Director of Gender Issues at the Ministry, Mrs. Joy Ihensekhien, said: “The Author survived gender violence, which preempts the writing of the book and its pre-launching today.
“We believe this book is going to help in solving issues of gender-based violence because some people don’t know what to do, especially when they have been violated. When eventually this book is released, it will educate men, women and children on the issues of domestic violence and what steps to take when they are being violated.”
The author and Project Coordinator, Nigeria for Women project, Louisa Eikhomun-Agbonkhese, noted: “My book is a documentation of my experience when I was suffering as a result of gender-based violence. The book will expose and enlighten victims of some laws available that protect their rights.
“We urge the law enforcement agencies not to trivialize the abuse of women and the girl-child. We also call on our women who are the majority of victims and survivors to break the silence; abuse is not acceptable and it’s inhuman. If, as a woman, you are going through any form of abuse or violation, speak out and engage with the right authority,” she added.
Agbonkhese said the book, which will be available by the end of the year or early January, 2021 will be officially launched in March 2021, to mark the International Women’s Day.
