UYO – A sociologist has raised concerns over the persistent incidence of gender-based violence against women and girls in Nigeria, describing it as a growing social menace fueled by harmful cultural practices, ignorance and institutional failures.

Speaking on the situation, a Professor of Industrial Sociology. Aniefiok Ukommi of the Department of Sociology and Anthropology, Faculty of Social Science, University of Uyo noted that violence against women and girls remains widespread across the country, cutting across social, religious and ethnic boundaries despite increasing advocacy and legal frameworks aimed at protecting vulnerable groups.

According to the scholar, deeply entrenched cultural beliefs and practices continue to expose many women and girls to various forms of abuse, including domestic violence, sexual exploitation, early marriage and other discriminatory practices that undermine their rights and dignity.

The sociologist further lamented that ignorance among communities and inadequate responses from relevant institutions have contributed significantly to the persistence of the problem, allowing perpetrators to act with impunity while victims struggle to obtain justice.

The expert called on government agencies, traditional rulers, religious leaders, civil society organisations and other stakeholders to intensify efforts toward public enlightenment, enforcement of existing laws and the protection of victims.

The sociologist stressed that ending gender-based violence requires a collective commitment to challenging harmful norms, promoting gender equality and strengthening institutions responsible for safeguarding the rights of women and girls.

The call comes amid renewed concerns over rising cases of abuse and violence against women and girls in several parts of the country.