On Friday, last week, graphic images of a woman who was allegedly killed by her husband flooded the internet and news stations in the country. Ronke Bewaji Shonde’s lifeless body was discovered locked in her home with her children who cried as blood gushed out of her head. According to comments gathered, Ronke has been a victim of domestic abuse by her husband who allegedly eventually killed her.
It is often said in Africa that a woman’s pride is her husband. While that is true to our culture, it is evil for anyone to physically abuse a woman, be her your wife, sister or a complete stranger.
In the course of my PRTOTECT THE GIRL CHILD campaign, I’ve discovered that the greatest challenge in combating violence against women and girls in our society is the willingness of victims to step forward and speak out when they are abused.
This maybe as a result of the usual stigmatization that follows, fear or lack of awareness.
Going by comments from witnesses, it is very likely that Ronke’s abuse did not begin the day she died; but whatever was done about it was clearly not enough, until she died.
Domestic abuse must not be condoned in our society. There are many bodies –governmental and non-governmental – set up for this particular purpose.
Our women must not protect social offenders by covering up crimes of abuses especially on our women and girls. As we already know, our lives depend on it.
Having raised children of my own and as a grandmother, I strongly believe that we, parents, are saddled with the responsibility of teaching our young ones that abuse – physical, emotional, psychological – is not acceptable.
Our children must be brought up to recognize and report the various forms of prevalent abuse.
I would like to take this time to condole with the family and friends of late Ms Ronke Bewaji Shonde. I pray you find the fortitude to bear your loss.
Dr Ipalibo Harry Banigo
Deputy Governor, Rivers State.
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