In a bold shift from conventional advocacy, the Protect The Child Foundation (PTCF) is harnessing the power of culture as a transformative weapon against Gender-Based Violence (GBV), harmful traditional practices, and systemic discrimination in Kogi State.
At an “Art and Impact” event held to commemorate International Women’s Day, the organisation unveiled its flagship initiative, Project Ebulejonu, a culturally rooted campaign designed to challenge entrenched social norms and promote inclusive, rights-based values across communities.
Backed by the French Embassy Fund, the initiative signals a growing recognition that culture—often blamed for perpetuating inequality—can be reclaimed as a force for progress.
Executive Director of PTCF, Elizabeth Achimugu, delivered a compelling message: culture must no longer be weaponised against the vulnerable.
“Our culture supports women, vulnerable people, and children. Instead of viewing culture as a problem, we must rediscover its positive values. Culture is our identity—it is our root,” she said.
Achimugu acknowledged the troubling reality that cultural practices have historically been used to justify abuses such as child marriage, denial of inheritance rights, and female genital mutilation. However, she argued that within the same cultural framework lie powerful narratives capable of dismantling these injustices.
Drawing from history, she cited Ebulejonu—the first Attah of Igala, believed to be a woman—as evidence that traditional institutions once embraced female leadership. According to her, reviving such narratives could play a pivotal role in reshaping societal attitudes and dismantling stereotypes.
Project Ebulejonu, she explained, goes beyond advocacy. It blends sensitisation with economic empowerment, aiming to create safer spaces for women and girls while addressing the root causes of GBV.
The call for cultural reawakening was echoed by stakeholders across civil society and traditional institutions.
Secretary of the Kogi NGOs Network (KONGONET), Reuben Joshua, emphasised the responsibility of community leaders in confronting harmful norms.
“Community leaders must take responsibility in ending practices that harm women and children. As civil society actors and traditional rulers, we are committed to eliminating harmful traditions that fuel inequality and violence.”
Also lending his voice, the Onu Igala of Kabba, Onuche Isaac, stressed that custodians of tradition must lead the charge in redefining cultural values to uphold human dignity.
Human rights activist, Joy Akinola, delivered a poignant reminder on the dangers of silence.
“Women must be empowered to speak up. Silence only perpetuates the problem.”
As conversations around GBV intensify nationwide, PTCF’s culture-driven approach introduces a fresh, locally grounded strategy—one that seeks not to discard tradition, but to reclaim and reshape it as a tool for justice, inclusion, and lasting social change.