Online harassment, gender-based attacks and smear campaigns targeting women in public life have come under scrutiny at a three-day meeting focused on improving media coverage of women in leadership.
The reflection meeting, organised by the Ellen Johnson Sirleaf Presidential Center for Women and Development in partnership with the International Press Centre (IPC), is being held under the theme, “Reporting on Leaders: See Her, Hear Her, Cover Her”.
On the second day of the programme, News Central TV’s Head of Digital, Kathleen Ndongmo, presented documented examples of online abuse directed at Nigerian women in public life.
Among those mentioned were Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, Oby Ezekwesili and Aisha Yesufu, who, according to the presentation, have faced personal attacks, comments about their appearance, unverified allegations and other forms of online smear narratives.
Ndongmo also highlighted research showing the extent of gendered online abuse against women in Nigeria. She said one study analysed about 140,000 posts on X and more than 500 posts across social media platforms, while another involved interviews with 28 women politicians and political office holders in Imo, Kogi, Ondo and Rivers states.
The research indicated that online abuse tends to intensify as women become more prominent in public life, particularly during elections and political campaigns. According to the findings presented, 2023 recorded the highest level of online abuse against women leaders in Nigeria.
About 80 per cent of the harmful content examined reportedly contained derogatory language directed at women because of their gender. Women also reported experiences including cyberstalking and other forms of online harassment.
Ndongmo warned that persistent online attacks could discourage women from seeking political positions or taking part in public affairs, particularly as increased visibility can expose them to greater hostility.
The discussions also explored why some women are hesitant to appear on camera or participate in public debates. Participants called on journalists and media organisations to provide safer and more supportive platforms that encourage women to contribute to public conversations.
At a panel titled “Issues and Perspectives on Women Leaders in Public and Digital Spaces”, Simbiat Bakare, founder of Naija Feminists Media, said online abuse can have consequences beyond the individuals targeted, extending to their families.
“Social media is another dimension in our society; it is one of the prices we pay,” Bakare said.
She urged media organisations to work together to give greater attention to women’s experiences and achievements, while encouraging journalists to ensure that reports are accurate and do not reinforce negative portrayals of women.
Melony Ishola, Head of Programmes at Punch Videos, described leadership as a difficult and often lonely journey and encouraged women to support one another.
Ishola also urged women to create opportunities and networks among themselves rather than relying solely on men for access to leadership opportunities.
Breezy News understands that the three-day programme will conclude on Friday, with participants expected to continue discussions on gender-sensitive journalism and the media’s role in covering women in public leadership.
The meeting forms part of broader efforts to examine how reporting practices can influence public perceptions of women in leadership and their participation in political and civic life.
