As part of activities marking the global 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, the Trade Union Congress (TUC), Rivers State Council, has called on women to speak up against every form of abuse occurring in workplaces, families and communities.
Speaking at a training organised for members of the TUC Women’s Commission in Port Harcourt, Chairman of the Congress, Comrade Samuel Ogan, said the initiative is aimed at reducing violence against women and children in the state to the barest minimum.
Comrade Ogan explained that the ongoing training, which entered its ninth day on Tuesday, is designed to empower women with knowledge of their rights and equip them to address issues of abuse within their homes and offices.
He disclosed that the programme would henceforth be expanded to reach more women across the state, including those in rural communities, through a “train-the-trainer” approach.
According to him, “Many women do not know their rights. When we educate women in workplaces and communities, they are able to speak out and also help others seek justice.”
Chairperson of the TUC Women’s Commission in Rivers, Comrade Ibiene Fynebone, said gender-based violence remains widespread and requires collective action from individuals, communities, and institutions. She urged victims to speak out rather than remain silent due to fear, stigma or lack of resources.
“No matter the situation you are facing, speak out. When you keep quiet, you deny yourself assistance and justice,” she said, adding that the Commission will continue to engage government agencies and stakeholders to sustain awareness and support survivors.
