“Violence has evolved; it no longer hides only in homes, workplaces or communities. Violence has moved from physical environments into digital spaces. Women and girls now face cyber bullying, impersonation, revenge, pornography, financial scams, online stalking, hate speech and technology enabled exploitation.”
This statement was made by the Delta state Commissioner for Women Affairs Community and Social Development, Hon. Pat Ajudua PhD during a Press Conference with Journalists at her office shortly after a road rally to Government House where Her Excellency the wife of the governor Deaconess Tobore Oborevwori had flagged off the 2025 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence.
Speaking on the theme of this year’s event titled, “UNITE! End Digital Violence Against Women and Girls,” the Women Commissioner challenged individuals, institutions and government to take stronger actions against violence pointing out that digital attacks enabled exploitation and were even more destructive than physical abuse.
Reiterating on the fact that the internet never forgets, the Commissioner emphasized on the responsibility of the Ministry especially with the advent of a more digitally connected world to expand these online spaces by protecting women and girls and embrace the challenge with innovation.
Hon. Ajudua further explained that in collaboration with the United Nations Women to build prevention structures across the state, Ubulu-Unor in Aniocha South Local Government Area had been identified as a model to serve as a launching ground for an intensified gender- based violence advocacy aimed at strengthening digital awareness.and teach safe online practices.
She also revealed the lineup of activities mapped to mark the 16 Days activism campaign and noted that prevention through strong policies, digital literacy, the use of responsible technology and community awareness were the priorities of her Ministry as she sought for collaboration with schools, Churches, Traditional Rulers, Civil Society groups, Security agencies and Cyber security experts.
Ajudua appreciated the Governor Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori for his unwavering support and commitment to social justice. She also appreciated the First Lady Deaconess Tobore Oborevwori for being an inspiration and for championing community empowerment, digital awareness and supporting vulnerable families through her “You Matter Charity Foundation.”
