Gender discrimination is an issue eating deep into Nigeria like a cankerworm and must be addressed.
Gender discrimination is defined as the unfair treatment of a person based on their gender.
In the eastern part of the country, we have high rate of female children who have fallen victim to this menace. In Igbo land, it is a tradition for one’s family to have a male child. If not, the man’s relatives may pressure him to take another wife and if eventually takes another wife-. This pressure can lead to disagreements between the two wives, causing familial and health issue to the man such as high blood pressure or even death of the man.
Furthermore, females are often denied the right to freedom of speech and expression. In many cases, women are not allowed to voice their opinions, even within their own homes. They may be denied to have a say in matters concerning their children or household decisions, leading to a significant suppression of their voices.
Moreover, in the northern part of Nigeria, many females are denied the “right to education.” They are not allowed to go to school, while male children are educated to any level they choose. Females are often made to believe that their place is in the kitchen, which can have a particularly adverse effect on extroverted girls, impacting their mental health and overall well-being.
In addition to, women are also denied the right to be voted for in political offices. While many women serve as ministers, those who aspire to be presidents, vice presidents, or governors often face disqualification or are only considered for deputy roles. This severely limits their political participation and leadership opportunities.
Gender discrimination has consequences for both those who practice it and the victims. Some of these consequences include:
Depression: Victims may feel unloved and neglected, leading to depression. This can result in harmful behaviors such as drinking or smoking.
Mental Health Issues: Victims may become introverted and withdrawn. For extroverts, this forced withdrawal can significantly impact their mental health.
Adultery: In the quest for a male child, men or women may commit adultery, which is a sin and can lead to further moral and familial complications.
Suicide: Severe depression may drive victims to commit suicide, which is also considered a sin.
Family Disputes: Taking another wife can lead to rivalry and household, setting a poor example for the children and disrupting family harmony. This stress can cause serious health issues, including high blood pressure in men, which in severe cases can lead to death.
These are just a few examples of the negative impacts of gender discrimination. It is a harmful practice that must be curbed for the betterment of society.
This write-up aims not to criticize any individual or tribe but to highlight the need to eliminate gender discrimination and its adverse effects on society.
Thank You.
Obiora Isioma Emmanuella is a JSS3 Student of The President Nursery & Primary School Ogun State.
