The Emir of Ilorin and Chairman Kwara State Traditional Council, Dr. Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari, has charged traditional rulers to take the lead in the fight against Gender-Based Violence (GBV), emphasizing that they have a crucial role in shaping societal norms and values.
Speaking at a stakeholders’ meeting held in Ilorin, the Kwara State capital, on Wednesday, the Emir, who was represented by the Daudu Jeje of Ilorin, Alh. Al-Haeri Abdulwahab, condemned the rising cases of GBV, noting that such acts undermine the dignity, security, and well-being of individuals, families, and entire communities.
He urged his fellow traditional rulers to use their influence to challenge harmful norms, prevent violence, and support survivors.
“As leaders and custodians of tradition, we have a profound responsibility to ensure that our communities become havens of peace, respect, and equality. Ending GBV requires a collaborative effort between traditional rulers, government agencies, and civil society organizations to empower both women and men to be part of the solution,” he stated.
The event, themed ‘Mobilising Stakeholders for Action Against GBV in Kwara’, was convened by the Brain Builders Youth Development Initiative (BBYDI) and brought together key stakeholders, including government officials, religious and community leaders, security agencies, and media representatives.
A key highlight of the meeting was the launch of the GBV Prevention and Advocacy Toolkit, which the Emir described as a timely resource to guide traditional rulers and other leaders in addressing GBV within their communities. He encouraged them to adopt and implement the strategies outlined in the toolkit to drive meaningful change.
“This toolkit is a call to action. I urge every traditional ruler to embrace its guidance, adapt it to their unique contexts, and commit to a future where violence has no place in our homes, our streets, or our hearts. Let us honor the sacred trust placed in us as leaders and create a legacy of peace, dignity, and progress,” he added.
Kwara State Governor, Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq, represented by his Senior Special Assistant on Community Development, Dr. Lawal Olohungbebe reaffirmed the government’s commitment to combating GBV through policy enforcement, legal action, and community-driven initiatives.
He commended BBYDI for its advocacy efforts and stressed the need for a multi-sectoral approach to tackling the issue.
Similarly, the First Lady of Kwara State, Ambassador Olufolake Abdulrazaq, described GBV as a pressing issue that demands collective action from all sectors of society. She expressed her support for all initiatives aimed at protecting the rights and dignity of women and girls.
Earlier in her welcome address, BBYDI’s Executive Director, Nura Jimoh, highlighted the organisation’s ongoing efforts to combat GBV, including engagements with first-class traditional rulers, GBV prevention workshops for high chiefs, and radio advocacy programs.
She described the recent tragic murder of Hafsoh Lawal in Ilorin by an Islamic cleric l, Abdulrahman Ballo, as a stark reminder of the urgent need for action. “This is not just a personal or family issue; it is a societal crisis that demands collective intervention. We must all do more to protect women and girls from all forms of violence,” she stated.
