Examining the Consequences of Gender-Based Violence on Economic Inclusivity of Women in Sokoto State

Abstract

The study investigated the consequences of Gender-Based Violence (GBV) on economic inclusivity of women as reported by selected survivors in Sokoto State of Nigeria. The study explored the experiences of 40 purposively selected women aged, 15 to 45 years from the lists of 1000 survivors (GBV Victims) under the Sokoto State Ministry of Women Affairs who have been victims of Gender Abused/Violence. Qualitative data on GBV experiences and associated factors were collected through Focus Group Discussions (FGDs). Descriptive analysis was used for the demographic characteristics of the participants. The transcription of the recorded audio cassettes, together with the recorded field notes, provided data for the thematic analysis. The discussions revealed that the principal consequences of GBV on economic development of women in Sokoto State include loss of jobs, reduced productivity, reduced workforce participation, denied economic inclusiveness, lower educational attainment, extreme economic dependency, total lack of trust, psychological trauma, depression, low self-esteem, and mental illness, which hampers them from relating meaningfully with people around them. The findings also confirmed that the majority of the victims don’t report the abuse case to the appropriate authority because they felt if reported, the perpetrators may likely hunt them back and dealt with them decisively. The finding confirmed that communities responses and their lack of sincerity for not taking action against gender-based violence (GBV) abusers have perpetuates a culture of violence, inequality, and impunity thereby escalation of violence, continued victimization of victims, as well as diminishing community cohesion. In order to reduce this ugly act, the paper proffers the following recommendations; Government should raise awareness and education; strengthen legal and judicial systems; provide comprehensive support services; foster community engagement; empower women and girls to mention but a few