By Ukpa Ewa
Journalists in Anambra State have been urged to improve the quality, sensitivity and ethical standard of reporting Gender-Based Violence (GBV) as the menace continues to grow due to deep rooted cultural norms and weak enforcement structures. The charge was made during a one day capacity building workshop in Awka for media personnel on GBV reportage, content development and amplifying survivor voices.
The training, titled “Empowering Christian Women and Women Leaders of Culture for Prevention and Response to Gender-Based Violence in Nigeria, Through the Strengthening of Grassroots Organizations " was implemented by Gender Perspective and Social Development Center (GPSDC) with support from WomenAid Collective (WACOL).
Speaking at the workshop, Executive Director of GPSDC, Mrs. Eucharia Anakwe said many GBV cases collapse at the police level because the media often publicise details prematurely, enabling perpetrators to flee. She noted that improved reportage would enhance justice delivery, strengthen advocacy and promote the work of civil society organizations. She implored journalists to apply the knowledge gained and raise the standard of GBV reporting across their platforms.
Delivering a presentation on the legal and ethical framework for GBV Reporting in Nigeria, a Developmental Communication expert and lecturer at Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka Dr. Julius Nwosu described GBV as pervasive in Nigeria, manifesting through domestic abuse, sexual assault, human trafficking, female genital mutilation among others. Citing recent demographic survey, he noted that at least 30 percent of Nigerian women aged 15 to 49 have experienced physical or sexual violence. He advised journalists to understand national and international legal frameworks such as Violence Against Persons Prohibition Act and Child Rights Act, protect survivors identities and avoid retraumatizing them through insensitive reporting.
Also speaking, the Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Anambra State Council, Comrade Odogwu Emeka Odogwu, PhD, emphasized that journalists must prioritize survivors dignity, consent and safety. He warned against sensational headlines and urged reporters to focus on solutions, use visuals responsibly and adopt survivor centred storytelling that drives social change. He added that every story should inspire hope, strengthen accountability and encourage community action.
Giving an overview of the project, the Monitoring and Evaluation Officer GPSDC Mr. Christian Madubueze said the programme aims to empower Christian women and female cultural leaders to challenge harmful norms and promote gender equality within their communities. He stressed that the media remains a crucial bridge between survivors and support systems.
Contributing during the training, Hajia Khadijat Olahan, Assistant Zonal Coordinator of the Federation of Muslim Women Association of Nigeria (FOMWAN), South East II, said the session exposed her to better ways of documenting and reporting GBV cases without endangering survivors. She narrated cases where victims were afraid to speak out due to fear of being identified, adding that the training has provided safer alternatives for reporting incidents.
On his part, a Journalist with Radio Nigeria, Mr. Uche Ndeke, commended GPSDC for the training, noting that GBV cases continue to rise despite existing laws and treaties. He added that although a one day session may not exhaust all aspects of GBV reporting as the training has laid a vital foundation for deeper understanding and responsible media practice.