Bauchi: A Chief Magistrate in Bauchi State, Mrs. Amina Garuba, has encouraged men to break the culture of silence and speak out to seek justice against Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV). Garuba emphasized the importance of addressing violence against men during an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Bauchi.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Garuba pointed out that men often endure emotional, physical, and psychological violence from their spouses but tend to remain silent due to cultural and traditional pressures. She noted that this silence often leads to a denial of justice for the victims. To address these issues, the Violence Against Person Prohibition Law (VAPP) has been domesticated in Bauchi State to punish all forms of gender-based violence. Garuba urged all citizens, regardless of gender or special needs, to speak out and assured that case managers are in place to offer support services and follow up on cases during trials.
A case manager from a civil society organization, w
ho requested anonymity, noted that men have started seeking counseling and justice for SGBV. He highlighted that some women traumatize their husbands, particularly for economic reasons, and called for the creation of safe spaces for men to access counseling services.
Additionally, Alhaji Sulaiman Bashir, the community head of Daniya ward in Bauchi, mentioned that the SGBV Network and Referral Committee has documented cases involving male and boy survivors of SGBV, showcasing a growing awareness and response to the issue.