Commitment To Justice: Abia First Lady Addresses Gender-Based Violence Issues

Commitment To Justice: Abia First Lady Addresses Gender-Based Violence Issues
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The wife of the Abia State Governor, Mrs. Priscilla Otti, has pledged that those who commit gender-based violence in the state will face justice as the government intensifies its efforts to address this critical issue…….CONTINUE READING 

Mrs. Otti made this commitment during a visit on Sunday to Mrs. Amarachi Okpokiri, a victim of severe domestic abuse in Emede, Umuahia North Local Government Area. The victim had suffered brutal machete wounds after her husband allegedly attempted to gouge out her eyes for ritualistic reasons, prompting widespread outrage in the state.

During her visit, the First Lady announced that the state government had strengthened the committee tasked with protecting vulnerable populations, ensuring swift justice for victims. She emphasized the administration’s unwavering stance against gender-based violence, declaring, “Abia State will be a hostile environment for anyone involved in gender-based violence, particularly against women and children. Justice will be served, and no perpetrator of such crime will go unpunished under this administration.”

Mrs. Otti also assured Mrs. Okpokiri’s family of the government’s support in securing sustainable means of livelihood, offering assistance to help her start a business.

She outlined a comprehensive approach to combating gender-based violence, which includes raising public awareness, establishing safe houses for victims, and providing legal and psychological support for survivors. “Community engagement is key,” she stressed, urging traditional leaders, local authorities, and civil society organizations to report cases and prevent abuses at the grassroots level.

Additionally, Mrs. Otti announced that law enforcement officers are receiving specialized training to handle gender-based violence cases with the sensitivity and urgency they require, ensuring prompt justice. She commended the traditional ruler of Emende, HRM Eze Allen Okpokiri, for quickly reporting the incident and urged him to continue leveraging his influence to combat such issues in the community.

In response, Eze Okpokiri expressed his gratitude for her visit, calling it a testament to the compassionate leadership in the state. “Your actions today demonstrate that the right government is in power. The people see your commitment to justice, compassion, and service,” he remarked.

Mrs. Okpokiri, the survivor, expressed her deep appreciation to Mrs. Otti for her ongoing support, recalling how the governor’s wife ensured her medical expenses were covered and continually monitored her recovery. “You have been my pillar of support. May God continue to bless and guide you,” she said.