***Global celebration of women’s resilience and a renewed call for men to uphold dignity and mutual respect
Every year on the 8th of March, the world comes together to celebrate International Women’s Day, a day dedicated to recognising the strength, resilience, and invaluable contributions of women across the globe.
Women continue to demonstrate remarkable steadfastness in the face of challenges. From nurturing families and building communities to leading in politics, business, education, and other professions, women have repeatedly shown their ability to persevere even in the most difficult circumstances. Their hardworking spirit, courage, and ability to endure trials while uplifting others remain a powerful source of inspiration to society.
Indeed, when women thrive, families grow stronger, communities prosper, and the world becomes a better place for all.
However, while celebrating the achievements of women, the day also serves as a reminder of the challenges many still face, particularly emotional, verbal, and physical abuse. Across many societies, countless women continue to experience violence, discrimination, and intimidation simply for speaking up or asserting their rights.
A recent case in Nigeria has sparked public concern after a young woman, Ogadinma Minnie Uchechi, allegedly suffered assault after drawing attention to the poor condition of a public secondary school in her community, Odiokwu, in Ahoada, Rivers State. The incident reportedly involved the Chairman of Ahoada West Local Government Area, Eugene Chita Epelle, after the young woman shared a video highlighting the deteriorating condition of the school and calling for intervention.
The development has generated widespread reactions from civil society groups and community members, many of whom have called for investigations and accountability. The chairman, however, has denied directly assaulting the young woman, describing the incident as a misunderstanding.
Incidents such as this highlight the challenges many women face when they speak out for change or demand accountability in their homes, workplaces, and communities.
Men are therefore urged to see women not as objects of abuse or domination but as partners in progress whose dignity and rights must be respected and protected at all times. While abuse can affect anyone and some men also experience it, global reports indicate that women remain disproportionately affected. This underscores the urgent need for a culture of mutual respect, understanding, and zero tolerance for violence in any form.
As the world marks International Women’s Day, individuals, families, and communities are encouraged to promote equality and create greater opportunities for women in leadership and decision-making spaces. Women have consistently shown that whatever opportunities or resources they are given, they multiply and transform them for the benefit of families, communities, and nations.
Today, as the world celebrates women, it is important to remember that empowering a woman is not just an act of fairness; it is an investment in stronger families, stronger communities, and a better world for all.
Congratulations to every woman, and Happy International Women’s Day!
Oluchi Oparah
Fmr National Treasurer
Labour Party