Lawyers Call for Stronger Justice Systems Over Rising Violations Against Women in Nigeria 

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On June 28, 2026, lawyers under the International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA) Nigeria have raised concern over the increasing frequency and severity of violations against women and children, calling for urgent action from government institutions, community leaders, and religious authorities.

In recent months, there has been an increase in femicide in Nigeria. Naija Feminists Media has reported some of the issues here, here, and here. FIDA’s concerns on violence against women were expressed at a media engagement in Abuja, where speakers highlighted gaps in accountability and the need for stronger prosecution of sexual and gender-based violence cases.

One speaker noted that while support is often provided for survivors of abuse, the justice system does not consistently ensure the prosecution of offenders.

“The efforts we can make in this area are limited. We can support survivors and ensure they are assisted and processed through available systems, but we do not always prosecute these cases,” the speaker said.

The speaker further stressed that representation of women must go beyond occupying positions, emphasising influence in decision-making processes that shape laws and institutions.

“For women across Nigeria, representation means more than occupying seats. It means having influence. It means helping to shape laws, institutions and policies that affect families,” the speaker added.

Chioma Onyenucheya-Ukoh, Chairperson of FIDA Abuja, said women’s representation across sectors remains limited and continues to affect governance and policymaking.

“Even in terms of voice in different areas, women’s representation has been a challenge,” she said.

Ezinwa Okoroafor, a senior leader within FIDA International, called for stronger collective responsibility from government and community stakeholders in addressing sexual and gender-based violence.

Participants also urged communities affected by insecurity to provide credible intelligence to security agencies to support efforts in tackling criminal activities.

They emphasised that addressing violence against women and children requires coordinated action across state institutions, communities, and civil society, particularly in strengthening prevention, accountability, and survivor protection.