(Richard Mofe-Damijo. Photo Credit: Daily post)
Nigerian actor Richard Mofe-Damijo, popularly known as RMD, has joined efforts to combat gender-based violence in Nigeria, emerging as a key stakeholder in the Male Feminists Network on Friday.
Speaking in Abuja, the 65-year-old veteran actor called for greater inclusion of women, particularly in government, citing his experience working with a predominantly female film crew two years ago as evidence that women can deliver excellent results when given the opportunity to lead.
He urged men against objectifying women, insisting they be treated with respect and dignity, akin to how one would treat a daughter or wife, warning against violence as a means of correction and stressing that dialogue remains a more effective approach than physical aggression.
On the broader fight against gender-based violence, RMD called on men to take responsibility for changing harmful attitudes and behaviours, maintaining that the burden of ending violence against women should not rest solely on women themselves.
He said the systemic and institutionalised ways in which women’s rights are undermined in Nigeria require men to lend their voices in support of organisations working toward gender equality and against such violence.
Also speaking, public affairs analyst and gender advocate, Dr Otive Igbuzor, noted that traditional rulers, prominent personalities and religious leaders have, based on experience, proven to be powerful allies in preventing gender-based violence.
