Over 133 Nigerian women and girls, including teenagers, were victims of gender-based violence (GBV) and femicide-related cases between January 1 and December 31, 2024. This is according to a report by DOHS Cares Foundation, a non-governmental organisation dedicated to combating gender-based violence and monitoring cases of femicide.
The data comes from the Foundation’s tracker dashboard, which monitors cases of femicide across the country.
According to DOHS Cares founder Ololade Ajayi, the reports highlight a troubling trend of violence. Verified data shows that from January to March 2024, 12 women were killed. Among the victims was three-year-old Asiya, whose body was discovered in Bauchi State with some body parts allegedly missing after she was reported missing.
In April 2024, nine women lost their lives. This included 100-year-old Aminat, who was killed by her 67-year-old son, Lukman Adejoju, following a dispute over palm oil sales.
From May to June 2024, at least 23 women were killed. One victim, a 69-year-old widow named Ifeoma Ajuluchukwu, was beaten unconscious in her home while battling an illness.
In July 2024, 16 cases were reported. Among the victims was Ifeoma Eze Esther, a first-year student at the University of Nigeria Nsukka, who was pushed from a hotel’s third floor by unidentified men.
In August 2024, eight women, including a newborn baby, were killed. Nine-year-old Runaisa Sadiq was among them; she was raped and murdered by a pharmacy owner in Kano after her father took her to him for malaria treatment.
In September 2024, seven women were killed, including 13-year-old Oriyomi Gboyega, whose severed wrists were found in the possession of an Islamic cleric.
In October 2024, 20 cases were recorded. One of the victims, 24-year-old Priscilla Ocheme, was found dead after visiting her male friend, Ekosuehi Elvis, on October 21.
According to the report, while some suspects have been arrested, many perpetrators remain at large.
Ajayi noted that the 133 reported cases represent only the verified incidents. “We have more unverified reports, and once they are confirmed, the figures might increase,” she said.
She urged the government to enact stronger laws to prevent, punish, and eliminate violence against women. She emphasized the need for swift action to protect women and girls from these tragic incidents.
The report serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need to address gender-based violence in Nigeria.