Former House of Representatives aspirant in Cross River State, Dr. Martha Agba, has issued a message of commitment and advocacy as the world observes the 2025 “16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence.”
Hon. Agba reaffirmed her resolute stand against all forms of sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV), describing the continued rise in incidents as “a painful reminder of the urgent work still ahead.”
She noted that the annual UN-backed campaign, which runs from 25 November to 10 December, provides a global platform for governments, institutions, and communities to renew their commitment to eliminating violence against women, girls, and all vulnerable persons.
Reflecting on the 2025 theme — “Empower, Protect, and Transform: Ending SGBV Through Collective Action”, Agba underscored the pressing need for stronger laws, holistic reforms, and more effective enforcement mechanisms capable of deterring perpetrators and supporting survivors.
“A society that tolerates violence cannot claim to protect its future. We must build systems that empower survivors, punish offenders, and prevent abuse long before it happens,” she said.
Agba also issued a heartfelt call to parents, teachers, guardians, and community leaders, urging them to take a proactive role in educating their children and wards on recognizing and speaking out against all forms of abuse.
She emphasized that silence enables the cycle of violence and must be broken through early awareness and safe reporting channels.
“Our children must know that their voices matter. Teaching them to speak up is one of the strongest tools we have in preventing abuse and protecting their dignity,” she stressed.
She restated her continued dedication to advocacy efforts, policy reforms, and community sensitization initiatives aimed at eliminating SGBV across Cross River State and Nigeria at large.
Agba called on government agencies, civil society groups, faith-based organizations, and citizens to work together to ensure that the 2025 16 Days of Activism inspires real action, real protection, and real transformation.
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