The National Association of Seadogs aka Pyrates Confraternity has called for a review of laws mitigating against cases of gender-based discriminations and violence in the society.
The Association, in conjunction with gender based advocacy groups including the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), the Bayelsa chapter of the International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA), and the Do Foundation agreed that despite the needed review, there is need to address gender-based biases at the homestead.
The groups noted that perpetrators of gender-based discriminations and violence are often fathers, brothers, and sons.
The Capoon of the Oxbow Marino Deck of Pyrates, Engr. Adogbeji Egbonoje, while speaking during a state-wide radio programme on Radio Bayelsa 97.1 FM, Yenagoa with the theme “For all Women and Girls: Rights, Equality and Empowerment,” stressed that paying attention to how sons are raised and groomed would have a profound impact on how they relate with women as adults.
He highlighted the significance of cultivating the mind of the girl child from infancy and instilling confidence in young girls as they venture into the world as adults.
This, he believes, would empower them to withstand negative peer pressures and chart their paths in life.
Also speaking on the radio discussion programme, the National Assistant Publicity Secretary of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Barr. Ebiere Emmanuella, the Former Chairperson of the International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA), Bayelsa State, Dr. Dise Ogbise, and Goddy Harry also shared insights on the historical context of International Women’s Day, progress made in gender equality, and the importance of education and policy changes in addressing systemic barriers.
The two legal experts pointed out the roles organizations like FIDA and NBA support marginalized women.
The duo also pointed out contending issues of workplace equality, women’s leadership, and the role of men as allies in the fight for gender equality.
