Men should be partners, not oppressors — Male Feminist Network

A group under the auspices of the Male Feminist Network has called on men to be willing partners, not oppressors — and protectors, not perpetrators — in the fight for gender equality and the elimination of gender-based violence in Nigeria.

The group’s Coordinator for Akwa Ibom, Delta, and Cross River states, Peace Edem, stated this while addressing a press conference in Uyo on Saturday.

The programme was facilitated by Youth for Change Initiative, with support from Value Rebirth Empowerment Initiative and the African Centre for Leadership, Strategy and Development (Centre LSD).

Edem noted that only when men become actively involved in the fight can society be free from such menace.

He said, “Nigeria ranks 130th out of 146 countries on the Global Gender Gap Report (2023). Our maternal mortality rate stands at 512 deaths per 100,000 live births, one of the highest in the world.

“It is against this sobering backdrop that we conceptualised the Male Feminist Network (MFN) not as another project, but as a movement of conviction and transformation.

“The Male Feminist Network seeks to redefine masculinity, promote gender justice, and inspire men to become true allies in the fight for gender equality and the elimination of gender-based violence.

For far too long, gender equality has been seen as a ‘women’s issue.’ But gender justice is not a women’s fight, it is a human one. Every man has a woman he loves; a mother, a sister, a wife, a daughter, or a colleague.

“Yet, in our society, these same women face daily struggles of inequality, exclusion, and abuse. Through the Male Feminist Network, we are saying ‘enough is enough.’ We are calling on men to be protectors, not perpetrators; partners, not oppressors; voices of reason, not silence.”

Edem explained that the group aimed to raise a new generation of male champions who would challenge harmful norms that fuel inequality and violence, and understand that empowering women does not threaten them but rather strengthens families, communities, and nations.

According to him, the group is not out to speak against tradition but against traditional practices that are not mutually beneficial and equality-enhancing.

He highlighted issues the Network would campaign against, including early child marriage, female genital mutilation, body shaming, and harmful widowhood practices, among others.

Also speaking, Anietie Bassey said the media have an important role to play in shaping positive narratives for gender equality and justice.

“I am of the firm belief that it is a greater duty of the media to create awareness on gender equality and change the mindset of men positively on embracing these healthy coexistence,” he said.

In a goodwill message, Usoro Peter thanked the initiators of the project, adding that all hands must be on deck to stamp out the dangers of gender inequality and discrimination.

“We shall be intentional to lead advocacy, mentorship, and community engagement that would support policies that ensure women and girls live in dignity and equality,” he stated.

culled from punch