16 Days of GBV Advocacy: Ebonyi Women Affairs urges Reforms

By Einstein Chukwu

The Ebonyi State Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development, led by the Commissioner, Barr. Mrs. Felicia Nwankpuma, marked 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence (GBV) with a powerful advocacy visit to the Secretary to the Ebonyi State Government (SSG) on Thursday. Represented by the Ministry’s Head of Department, Mrs. Roseline Oji, the team sought government support to eliminate Female Genital Mutilation (FGM), operationalize existing shelters, and address other gender-based violence issues.

Mrs. Oji, speaking on behalf of the Commissioner, highlighted the dormant state of the shelter and Sexual Assault Referral Centre (SARC) and the need for revitalization. “We are here to dialogue on creating a haven for gender-based violence survivors. Shelters and referral centres provide redress and support for survivors, but their redundancy denies victims justice and recovery,” she stated.

Barr. Nkem Chukwu, Executive Director of HSJPI/CSO, underscored the need for a domesticated gender policy in Ebonyi State, aligning with the national policy. “Reports show that FGM is prevalent in Ebonyi. This practice damages our reputation globally and perpetuates poverty among women. A state-costed action plan is crucial to tackling GBV, ensuring budgetary allocations in 2025 for effective implementation,” she urged.

Further emphasizing the importance of functional shelters, Barr. Helen Kalu of WACOL lamented the challenges victims face without safe spaces. She noted that the Sexual Assault Referral Centre (SARC), established by the Ebonyi State Government, remains non-operational despite substantial investment. “The shelter and referral centre are meant to provide succour to those who have endured gender-based violence, including domestic violence, rape, and other forms of abuse. However, issues such as inadequate funding, insufficient staffing, and other technical challenges have left the facility dormant,” she explained. Kalu emphasized that a functional shelter is not only a refuge but a critical step toward fostering recovery, protecting lives, and enabling justice for survivors. She appealed for swift government intervention to address these challenges and operationalize the centre to meet its intended purpose.

Barr. Faithvin Nwanchor, State Coordinator of the GBV Task Force, recalled the Violence Against Persons (VAP) Law enacted in 2018 and amended in 2022. She stressed its under-implementation. “Survivors left in hostile environments face compounded trauma. Budgetary provisions are essential for the operationalization of shelters to ensure justice and protection for vulnerable individuals,” she noted, citing a 13-year-old survivor’s ordeal as a stark example.

Representing the SSG, Professor Grace Umezurike, through Cabinet Office Permanent Secretary Mr. Nweze Onu, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to combating GBV. “This administration prioritizes gender inclusivity and the elimination of violence against women. The governor’s wife has intensified grassroots efforts, and the government has partnered with organizations to address these issues comprehensively,” he said.

The SSG’s representative urged the Ministry and partners to formalize their demands. “Articulate your requests through the Ministry of Women Affairs for prompt action. This government values logical demands and partners with stakeholders to ensure gender-based violence is eradicated,” he assured.

The event concluded with a vote of thanks from Mrs. Stella Okechukwu, who expressed gratitude to the government for its willingness to address GBV issues. “Your attention and commitment to deliberating on our concerns give us hope for meaningful action and progress,” she remarked.

This advocacy visit underscores the urgency of addressing gender-based violence, ensuring survivors’ safety, and fostering a society where justice and equality thrive.