Minister’s Advice Sparks Controversy: “Shut Up During Argument With Your Husbands,” Warns Women

Minister’s Advice Sparks Controversy: “Shut Up During Argument With Your Husbands,” Warns Women

In a controversial statement, Minister for Women Affairs, Uju Kennedy-Ohaneye, stirred debate by advising Nigerian women to maintain peace in their homes, even during arguments with their husbands……READ ALSO Minister Vows To Unlock Federal Investments In Power Sector

Speaking at a Conference of Commissioners of State Ministries of Women Affairs in Nigeria held in Abuja on Wednesday, the minister urged women to refrain from engaging in verbal sparring with their spouses, emphasizing that silence could prevent physical assault and foster harmony in the household.

Kennedy-Ohaneye stressed the importance of avoiding confrontation, asserting that remaining silent during disagreements does not signify weakness but rather wisdom, potentially averting domestic violence and the adverse upbringing of children.

“Keep your mouth shut. Talking back does not yield fruit, rather it leads to death and destruction, it leads to bringing up bad children for society. Keep your mouth shut, it does not make you a fool but a wise person,” the minister admonished.

She underscored the potential risks associated with retaliating during arguments, highlighting the possibility of injury or even death in extreme cases of domestic violence.

Kennedy-Ohaneye’s remarks, particularly her directive for women to maintain silence during disputes, sparked a mixture of reactions, with some applauding her for advocating peace and others expressing concerns about perpetuating a culture of silence and subservience among women.

Additionally, the minister called for legislative action to establish a mobile court to address gender and sexual-based offenses, reaffirming her commitment to advocating for women’s rights and ensuring accountability in the management of funds allocated for women’s empowerment initiatives.

The minister’s call for silence during marital conflicts, coupled with her push for legal reforms to address gender-based violence, signals a renewed focus on promoting domestic harmony and enhancing women’s safety within the household, amidst ongoing efforts to address gender inequality and empower women across Nigeria.