No Excuse for Abuse: Traditional Rulers Sanusi, Achebe, Ndanusa Reject Culture as Justification for GBV"

 In a powerful display of cross-cultural solidarity, three prominent Nigerian traditional rulers—the 14th Emir of Kano, HRH Muhammadu Sanusi II; the Obi of Onitsha, HRM Igwe Nnaemeka Alfred Achebe; and the Emir of Shonga, HRH Dr. Haliru Ndanusa—have united to condemn gender-based violence (GBV) and call for its immediate eradication.

The rare collaboration, featured in a high-profile television discussion and tied to ongoing conferences on GBV prevention, brought together Islamic, Igbo, and Nupe perspectives to challenge harmful practices often hidden behind cultural or traditional norms.

Emir Sanusi II delivered one of the most forceful messages, asserting that no custom can override Nigerian law or basic human rights. "You cannot beat a woman because your culture says you can beat her," he declared. "She is a Nigerian citizen entitled to protection; it doesn’t matter what you think because these are the values that we live by in this time." He emphasized that women's and children's rights are inviolable under the constitution, and cultural justifications for abuse hold no ground in modern Nigeria.

The Obi of Onitsha reinforced this view, stressing that true culture should protect the vulnerable rather than oppress them. "Culture is important and should be used to protect the weak in society, rather than intimidate them," Achebe said, urging communities to reinterpret traditions in ways that safeguard lives and dignity.

From a medical and public health standpoint, Emir Ndanusa described GBV as more than a moral issue—it is an economic and biological catastrophe with long-term consequences. He highlighted the urgency of addressing practices like early girl-child marriage, which contribute to cycles of violence and health risks. Drawing from past successes, he shared how traditional rulers in the North used evidence-based education to eliminate a deadly post-childbirth cultural practice that once claimed women's lives, proving that harmful norms can be changed when leaders take ownership.

The discussion underscored the role of traditional institutions in grassroots reform. These monarchs appeared together on platforms like Channels Television's The Morning Brief, presenting a united front against GBV amid rising national concern over domestic abuse, sexual violence, and child exploitation.

Their statements align with broader calls for enforcement of laws like the Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Act (VAPP) and reforms to outdated provisions (e.g., sections of the Penal Code that have been misused to excuse "correction" of wives).

As Nigeria grapples with persistent GBV cases, this rare alliance of influential figures from different regions and faiths signals a potential turning point. By leveraging their authority, they aim to shift community attitudes, promote education, and demand accountability.

The message is clear: GBV has no place in Nigeria's future. Traditional leaders are stepping up—not just to condemn, but to lead the charge for change.