By Suzan Edeh, Bauchi
A Bauchi based Civil Society Organization, Journalists for Public Health Development (J4PD), has lamented the harassment and intimidation of women and girls in the cyber space as a result of their gender.
As part of activities marking the 2025 16-Days of Activism against GBV, the CSO called on authorities and stakeholders in the country to ensure safe digital environment for girls and women.
The event, which was held at Dogo Yaro roundabout, a strategic location in Bauchi, along the Dass road, brought together Civil Society groups and Journalists, in order to advocate for an end to digital violence against girl-child and women.
Speaking at the occasion on Wednesday, the Executive Director of J4PD, Elizabeth Kah said that cyber bullying is unacceptable, stressing that it must not be condoled in the society.
“Enough is enough. We have to unite to end cyber bullying, harassment, and violence against women and girls.Government must formulate policies to safeguard online spaces and promote digital literacy, especially in schools.”
, “Let’s create a safe digital space where everyone can express themselves freely, without fear of attack or intimidation.”She said.
J4PD condemned harmful norms fueling online abuse, encouraging voices to speak out against cyber harassment and bullying of girls and women.
Also speaking, Chairperson of the Bauchi State chapter of the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), Mrs Rashida Yusuf, called for sustained media advocacy and public enlightenment on preventing and reporting GBV.
She said that while some cases of abuse are reported, many others remain undocumented, a development that negates the fight against GBV.
Rashida Yusuf commended J4PD for its continued advocacy on public health and social issues, saying that it is gradually paying off with the recent approval of 6-month paid leave for nursing and lactating mothers that are in the civil service.
A representative of the Medical Women’s Association of Nigeria (MWAN), Dr Kaltume Shu’aibu, encouraged victims of abuse or online harassment to report cases promptly to the appropriate authorities for immediate action.
Participants at the rally were seen displaying placards with inscriptions such as “Let every girl grow up unafraid,” “Inclusion means safety for every woman and girl,” and “Speak out, silence protects abusers.”
J4PD, though a Professional inclined CSO, has support from the United Nations Populations Fund (UNFPA) through the Bauchi State Coordinating office.