A Non-Governmental Organisation, Centre for Information Technology and Development (CITAD), in Kano state has called on victims of sexual assault, abuse, and domestic violence to always speak out against their experiences.

The gender desk officer of CITAD, Zainab Aminu made the call on Friday, during a monthly press conference on gender based violence in the state.

Aminu explained that in CITAD monthly report on Gender-Based Violence (GBV) said there was about 150% increase in reporting Gender-Based Violence in Kano in the month of May.

She said due to increased awareness and advocacies, victims have been reporting different types of violence using GBV App specifically designed for the purpose.

“In comparison with the data obtained in previous months, GBV cases are still on the increase. 85 cases were reported via our GBV App for the month which includes sexual harassment, online harassment, sexual abuse, and wife battering,” Zainab said.

According to her, GBV thrives only when all stakeholders keep quiet and allow it to fester.

While appealing to parents, relatives, and guardians to always report cases of GBV to relevant authorities or NGOs, she called on the government to ensure that laws are enacted to bring the perpetrators to justice.

She, therefore enjoined the general public to regard online violence just as any other violence that has negative consequences on the victims.

Zainab, therefore called on the government and relevant stakeholders to unite in the fight against crime by strengthening laws that will protect women and children against such heinous acts.

The gender desk officer equally enjoined women to break the silence by speaking out and reporting their cases to the appropriate authorities for necessary actions.