Gender Based Violence: Only 33 Out Of 5204 Perpetrators Have Been Convicted In 2021

The Federal Government through the minister of Women Affairs, Dame Pauline Tallen has said only 33 out 5402 perpetrators of Gender-Based Violence (GBV) are convicted.

The Minister said this on Thursday, in a press briefing to commence the 202116 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence in Abuja.

"From available statistics from the National Situation Room and Dashboard set up in the Federal Ministry of Women Affairs under the UN/EU Spotlight initiative targeting 6 States supported by UNDP as of yesterday 24th November 2021, the total number of cases reported is 5,204 of which 3,125 survivors are demanding justice and only 33 perpetrators have so far been convicted, representing 0.51 per cent. The fatal cases are 160, closed cases 231, while open cases (cases pending in court) are 972.

The Minister noted that the trend is unacceptable, and efforts will be intensified with the Federal Ministry of Justice to ensure justice for victims and survivors.

"The present administration under the leadership of President Muhammadu Buhari has demonstrated high commitment not only to eliminate harmful practices against women and girls; but also, to curb the rampaging impact of COVID-19 pandemic and other SGBV.

"In the light of this, a significant amount in our 2022 budget has been dedicated to fighting Gender Based-Violence nationwide. President in his 2022 Budget Statement to the National Assembly has gone a step further to direct that ministries, departments and agencies must devote some amount in their budgets to address gender-related issues"

She employed all relevant ministries to engage, amplify advocacy to the States and rural communities for further enlightenment in this regard.

The UN country representative, Samuela Isopi identified impunity as fuel for GBV

"This type of violence remains largely unreported due to the stigma and shame surrounding it, and the lack of confidence in authorities. As a result, many perpetrators remain free and unpunished. Impunity contributes to fuel GBV," she said.