In tribute to and in remembrance of the United Nations’ “16 Days of Global Activism against Gender-Based Violence” in 2022, a non-profit organization named Live Abundantly sponsored the performance “Menace” in partnership with The British Council.
The production was executed by Magni Cedar Production. Numerous dignitaries were present at the event, which was held last weekend in Ikoyi, Lagos.
The solo, multi-faceted drama addresses matters of gender-based violence impacting both genders while illuminating the origins of the issue that traumatizes, embarrasses, and stigmatizes individuals, particularly males who often hesitate to discuss such topics.
Benny Akinyemi, the sole performer and playwright of the piece, stated that it was inspired by genuine experiences of individuals and that he had encountered similar situations.
Dr. Onyerinma Ama, the founder of Live Abundantly, likewise condemned all types of violence and insisted that attention should be directed towards violence against men. It’s time we recognized that males face sexual assault as well, albeit possibly not to the same degree as is commonly publicized with women. However, since it indeed occurs, it deserves attention. Regrettably, men struggle to voice their experiences due to societal and cultural biases.
Ama also recounted how some families of victims refrained from pursuing legal action out of shame and remorse. She added that an appropriate framework should be established to assist victims in reintegrating into society.
In a similar vein, Chim Chalemera, the representative of the British Deputy High Commissioner in Nigeria, Ben LLewellyn-Jones, agreed that men’s experiences of violence receive inadequate attention. She also emphasized that performances like this could heighten awareness and empower men to speak out when they encounter abuse without feeling ashamed.
Chalemera remarked, “It begins at home with parents recognizing that all children, both male and female, possess voices, and they should be encouraged to utilize them.
“The belief that men should not cry has not benefitted our men. It starts with parents teaching their sons that they should not feel embarrassed to cry and express their emotions.”
Other dignitaries at the event included Daddy Showkey, the chair and trustee of Live Abundantly, Gbenga Oguntayo, the examinations director for Nigeria for the British Council, Marniee Nottingham, and Lucy Pearson, the country manager for the organization.
