By Solomon OKPO
Uyo, As the world marks International Women’s Day (IWD), the Akwa Ibom Human Rights Community (AHRC) has joined voices with other advocates of social justice to celebrate the invaluable contributions of women to societal progress.
In a statement signed by Convener Clifford Thomas, Esq., and Public Relations Officer Dr. Victor David, the group saluted the courage, resilience, and dedication of honest and hardworking women, recognizing them as the “heroines we celebrate” on this special occasion.
However, the statement also drew attention to the struggles, pains, and frustrations faced by many women in their quest for equality and progress. The group emphasized the need for continued advocacy and communal support to ensure victory over systemic challenges.
The AHRC further called out certain women who, through their actions, hinder the progress of others, urging them to realign their strategies to promote collective growth and inclusion. The statement stressed that African communal values should be leveraged to foster respect, protection, and promotion of women’s rights.
Importantly, the group placed a responsibility on men and boys to take a central role in advocating for gender equality. It urged them to be champions of equity, justice, and fairness, rather than perpetrators or victims of gender-based injustices.
“Men must take the center stage in recognizing our women as stakeholders in the enterprise of humanity,” the statement read, emphasizing the need for balanced gender relations in society.
The Akwa Ibom Human Rights Community concluded by congratulating women worldwide, reaffirming its commitment to equity, justice, and fairness in the ongoing struggle for gender inclusion.
