Dr. Ekane Mirabelle Eduke, a renowned Cameroonian woman and advocate for women’s empowerment, sheds light on the often-overlooked issue of violence against men. As a PhD holder in Banking and Finance and a dedicated public servant, Dr. Ekane brings a unique perspective to the conversation.
“Yes, men are more likely to suffer in silence when experiencing domestic violence,” Dr. Ekane affirms. “The reasons are complex and multifaceted, involving societal stigma, fear of disbelief, and the pressure to conform to traditional masculine norms.”
Dr. Ekane defines violence as the intentional use of physical force or power, including verbal and emotional abuse, to inflict harm. She highlights the various forms of domestic abuse men face, including physical abuse, emotional and psychological abuse, sexual abuse, isolation, stalking, and harassment.
The societal expectations of “manhood” can be a significant barrier to men seeking help. “Men are often socialized to be strong and stoic, making it difficult for them to admit vulnerability,” Dr. Ekane explains. “The fear of being seen as weak or emasculated can be overwhelming.”
Despite these challenges, Dr. Ekane notes that some factors are empowering men to speak out. “Severe mental health impacts, specialized support services, and shifting cultural norms around masculinity are encouraging men to seek help,” she says.
Dr. Ekane emphasizes the importance of believing and listening to men without judgment. “We must recognize that abuse takes many forms beyond physical violence and work to dismantle the stigma surrounding male victims.”
She calls for increased training for authorities, from police officers to judges and social workers, to handle cases of male domestic violence. “We need to challenge harmful gender norms and celebrate men who are emotionally open and brave enough to ask for support,” she adds.
As a woman and an advocate, Dr. Ekane’s stance on violence against men is clear: “It’s time to break the silence and acknowledge that domestic violence has no gender. We must work together to create a society where everyone, regardless of gender, can live without fear of abuse.”
Dr. Ekane Mirabelle Eduke’s courageous words serve as a reminder that violence against men is a pressing issue that demands attention and action. By speaking out and supporting those affected, we can create a more inclusive and compassionate society for all.
Dr. Ekane Mirabelle Eduke is a PhD holder in Banking and Finance, serving at the Ministry of Finance. She is a fervent entrepreneur, mentor, and advocate for women’s empowerment. Her work focuses on financial literacy, educational access, and digital inclusion.
By Olive Ejang
