EFFORT OF THE CHERUBIM AND SERAPHIM MOVEMENT CHURCH, ILORIN, KWARA STATE NIGERIA IN CURBING GENDER BASED VIOLENCE AMONG FAMILIES
Keywords:
Gender-Based Violence, stigma, abuse, counsellingAbstract
This study investigates the efforts of the Cherubim and Seraphim Movement Church in Ilorin, Kwara State, Nigeria, in addressing and curbing gender-based violence (GBV) among families. Recognising GBV as an entrenched social issue rooted in harmful cultural norms, unequal power relations, and societal silence, the study examines the Church’s initiatives, counselling systems, and support structures aimed at mitigating abuse. Using a qualitative research design, the study draws on interviews with selected Church personnel to gain insights into the Church’s roles, strategies, and challenges in responding to GBV. Findings reveal that the Church employs awareness-raising programmes, including workshops, seminars, symposia, and structured counselling sessions, to educate members on forms of GBV and promote healthier family interactions. The study also shows that while these interventions are impactful, the Church continues to grapple with persistent obstacles such as stigma, underreporting of abuse, and limited collaboration with external agencies. The study concludes that although the Cherubim and Seraphim Movement Church contributes meaningfully to curbing GBV, its efforts would be strengthened by deeper partnerships with government bodies, civil society organisations, and professional counselling services, as well as through expanded gender-sensitivity training and the provision of safe spaces for survivors.
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