The Centre for Information Technology and Development (CITAD) has urged religious leaders in Kano to use their platforms to preach against Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV) and encourage men to play active roles in tackling the menace.
Mr Muhammad Sani-Sa’idu, Project Officer of the Male Feminist Network (MFN) under CITAD, made the call on Wednesday during an advocacy visit to the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Kano State chapter.
He said tackling gender-based violence should not be left to women alone, stressing that men must rise to become allies in the struggle.
“The MFN is supported by the African Centre for Leadership Strategy and Development (Centre LSD) and the Ford Foundation, is working to recruit, train and mobilise men to challenge harmful cultural practices and patriarchal systems that fuel gender inequality.
“Too often, men remain silent when women are abused. But silence is complicity. We must move from being bystanders to active defenders of justice.
“If men stand up, the wall of silence will break and communities will change,” he said.
Sani-Sa’idu noted that many women suffer in silence due to stigma, cultural pressure or misinterpretation of religion, adding that no scripture permits abuse.
“peaceful home cannot be built on fear, and no religion sanctions violence against women. When men respect women, they also protect the dignity of society,” he said.
He urged clerics to expose perpetrators of GBV, described violence against women as not only a personal tragedy but also a national setback.
“When you strike a woman, you wound the heart of a nation. When you uplift a woman, you uplift generations,” he added.
Responding, the CAN Chairman Kano State Chapter, Rev. Adeolu Samuel-Adeyemo, JP, commended CITAD for bringing the message to the church and pledged support in addressing the problem.
Represented by his Deputy, Rev. Bitrus Nuhu, said “No religion accepts violence. The church cannot fold its arms while women and girls suffer.
“Our voices must guide families to live in peace and mutual respect.” he said
Similarly, the President of the Evangelical Church of Christ in Nigeria (ECCN), Rev. Kefas S. Galadima, said faith communities must go beyond condemnation by offering safe spaces for survivors.
“Preaching alone is not enough. Churches must provide counselling, healing and justice for victims. As scripture teaches: defend the weak and the oppressed this is true religion,” he said.