David Ochayi
(Veteran actor Richard Mofe-Damijo. Photo: Getty Images)
Renowned Nollywood icon Richard Mofe-Damijo, affectionately called RMD, has stepped forward as a leading advocate against gender-based violence in Nigeria, officially aligning with the Male Feminists Network in a powerful Friday announcement.
During an impassioned address in Abuja, the seasoned 65-year-old thespian championed increased female representation in leadership roles and decision-making spaces. He referenced his transformative experience collaborating with a female-dominated production team as proof of women’s exceptional leadership capabilities.
The award-winning actor challenged traditional gender norms, advising men to regard women with the same reverence they would show their closest family members. RMD condemned all forms of physical discipline, advocating instead for constructive communication to resolve conflicts within relationships.
The screen legend positioned male engagement as crucial in dismantling patriarchal systems, arguing that meaningful social transformation requires men’s active participation in challenging discriminatory practices. He emphasized that women shouldn’t bear sole responsibility for combating gender inequality.
Further reinforcing his stance, RMD highlighted the urgent need for male allies to support feminist organizations addressing institutionalized gender discrimination and systematic rights violations against Nigerian women.
Gender specialist Dr. Otive Igbuzor complemented these remarks by stressing the influential role cultural custodians, community leaders, and faith-based organizations play in reshaping societal attitudes toward gender-based violence prevention.
