A women’s advocacy group, Male Feminist Network, MFN, has urged Nigerian men not to be oppressors but fully get involved and support the fight for gender equality and the elimination of Gender Based Violence, GBV, in Nigeria.

It said given the rate of gender discrimination and spike in GBV cases nationally and globally; only men’s true alliance would stem the tide and bring about a society free from fear, bias, and gender inequality.

The Akwa Ibom, Delta and Cross River States Cordinator of MFN, Peace Edem made the call on Friday during a press briefing in Uyo facilitated by Youth for Change Initiative with support from Value Rebirth Empowerment Initiative and the African Centre for Leadership, Strategy and Development,(CentreLSD).

While lamenting the 130th position of Nigeria out of 146 countries on the Global Gender Gap Report, 2023, as well as the high maternal mortality rate in the country, Edem said the Network was birthed to redefine masculinity and inspire men to become true allies in the fight for gender equality.

He said, “For far too long, gender equality has been seen as a “women’s issue. But gender justice is not a women’s fight, it is a human one. Every man has a woman he loves; a mother, a sister, a wife, a daughter, or a colleague. Yet, in our society, these same women face daily struggles of inequality, exclusion, and abuse. Through the Male Feminist Network, we are saying “enough is enough.” We are calling on men to be protectors, not perpetrators; partners, not oppressors; voices of reason, not silence.”

Edem said the group intends to raise a new generation of male champions who would challenge harmful norms that fuel inequality, violence in the community and understand that empowering women does not threaten them rather strengthens families communities and nations.

“We are not out to speak against tradition, but against traditional practices not mutually beneficial and equality enhancing. Those of the things the Network intends to kick against are, early child marriage, female genital mutilation, body shaming, harmful widowhood practices, among others.”

Also speaking, President, Male Advocate Unit of GBV Management Committee in Akwa Ibom, Anietie Bassey (Esq) said the media have important role to play in shaping positive narrative for gender equality and justice .

He said,”I am of the firm belief that it is a greater duty of the media, to create awareness on gender equality and change the mindset of men positively on embracing these healthy co existence.”

In his goodwill message, the Senior program officer, Abundant Word of Faith Foundation, Usoro Peter thanked the initiators of the project, adding that all hands must be on deck to stamp out the traces of gender-based violence and discrimination in the church, families and communities as well.

He added. “We shall be intentional to lead advocacy, mentorship, and community engagement that would support policies that ensure women and girls live in dignity and equality.”

GBV: Group seeks men’s involvement in fight for gender justice