RMD urges men to stop violence against women, calling for respect, dignity and stronger action against gender-based violence in Nigeria

Nollywood veteran actor Richard Mofe-Damijo, popularly known as RMD, has called on men to end violence against women, urging greater respect and responsibility in tackling gender-based violence in Nigeria.

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RMD urges men to stop violence against women after emerging as a key stakeholder in the Male Feminists Network, where he spoke about the need for men to support efforts aimed at protecting women’s rights.

Speaking in Abuja, the 65-year-old actor advocated for greater inclusion of women, particularly in leadership and government positions, while sharing his personal experiences of working with women in the creative industry.

RMD said he deliberately ensured that women played major roles in a film production he worked on, noting that their contributions demonstrated the importance of giving women opportunities.

“Personally, when I did a film two years ago, I had like 80 percent women in the crew,” he said.

The actor also urged men to treat women with dignity and avoid behaviours that promote discrimination or abuse.

“Just give respect to women and treat them like human beings. Or treat them like the way you would treat your daughter or your wife, with respect, with dignity,” RMD said.

He warned against objectifying women and condemned the use of physical violence as a means of resolving disagreements.

“Correcting them does not mean hitting and beating them. It is easier to talk to people these days than to just use your fist,” he added.

RMD stressed that the fight against gender-based violence should not be left solely to women, arguing that men must actively participate in changing harmful attitudes and behaviours.

“There are institutionalised and systemic ways that women’s rights are trampled upon in Nigeria, and it is not something only women can fight,” he said.

The actor encouraged men to support organisations working to promote women’s rights and prevent abuse, describing collective action as essential to creating safer communities.

Gender advocate Dr. Otive Igbuzor also highlighted the role of respected traditional, political and religious figures in helping to prevent gender-based violence, noting that influential voices can help drive meaningful change.

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RMD’s intervention adds to ongoing national conversations around gender equality, women’s safety and the need for stronger societal action against violence.