NAWOJ Chair calls for media action on GBV, respectful language for PWDs

By Deborah Oladejo, Osogbo

Abisola Ariwodola, Chairperson of the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ) in Osun, has called on journalists to play a key role in protecting women and children from Gender-Based Violence (GBV).

At a media training organized by ActionAid and the Ministry of Women Affairs in Osun, Ariwodola stressed that GBV stems from gender inequality, power imbalances, and harmful social norms.

She explained that GBV can take various forms, including physical, economic, sexual, cultural, and emotional violence, and disproportionately affects women and girls.

Ariwodola urged journalists to focus on reporting the actions of perpetrators, rather than victimizing survivors. She also highlighted the importance of portraying survivors with dignity and obtaining their consent before sharing their stories.

She emphasized that the media plays a crucial role in shaping public opinion, influencing policies, and driving societal change. Journalists should use their platforms to promote justice and equality.

In a goodwill message, Funmilayo Abdullahi, a representative of persons with disabilities, appealed to the media to portray persons with disabilities positively and accurately. She urged that people with disabilities not be defined by their condition but recognized for their abilities and societal contributions.

Abdullahi also called for the use of respectful language, suggesting terms like “visually impaired” instead of “blind” and “intellectually disabled” instead of “mentally retarded.”