Violence Against Women in Ikwerre Ethnic Nationality of Nigeria:Challenges for Gender Equity and Development

One of the major concerns of political leaders in the world today is peace building especially where the absence of peace affects mostly the women and children. Despite the various efforts at engendering peace at all levels of the society, gender-based violence occurs in all societies of the world; within the home or in the wider community and it affects women and girls disproportionately. This paper discusses gender-based violence in Ikwerre ethnic nationality, Rivers State, Nigeria and suggests strategies for countering cultural (patriarchal) excuses for gender based violence in Ikwerre ethnic nationality. Key words: Violent; Women; Ikwerre; Gender equity; Development