By Emmanuel Ugwu-Nwogo
As she intensifies her campaigns to eradicate gender-based violence(GBV), the wife of Abia State Governor, Mrs. Priscilla Chidinma Otti, has declared that the state has now become a hostile environment for those that engage in domestic violence.
She stated this on Sunday, September 29, when she visited the palace of the traditional ruler of Emede Ancient Kingdom, HRM Eze Allen Okpokiri, to check on the recuperating Mrs. Amarachi Okpokiri, who recently survived a life- threatening attack by her husband, Lawrence Uzor.
“Abia State will be a hostile environment for anyone involved in gender-based violence, particularly against women and children,” she declared, adding that government would remain firm in its commitment to safeguarding its citizens.
Amarachi had early September almost lost her eyes in the failed bid by her husband to pluck out her eye balls for alleged ritual purposes, but was rescued by neighbours that responded to her distress cry.
Following the ugly inckdent, the Abia First Lady took up the medical needs of the domestic violence survivor and had been keeping tabs on her recovery while receiving medical care at the Federal Medical Centre(FMC) Umuahia. She was at the palace of the Emede royal father, who happens to be Amarachi’s uncle, and in whose home the GBV survivor is stayihg for her recuperation after discharge from hospital.
The Abia Governor’s wife expressed deep gratitude to God for “the miraculous recovery” of Amarachi as her eyesight, which was almost lost, was eventually restored.
It was her second visit to the GBV survivor, having first visited her at the hospital and picked her medical bills as well as her welfare needs.
The Abia Governor’s wife, who was accompanied by some government officials during the palace visit, said that her second visit was to ascertain the progress of Amarachi’s recovery and explore other ways to assist her rebuild her life.
She reassured the family that the Abia State Government remains committed to helping Amarachi to have sustainable means of livelihood. Mrs Otti pledged to support her start a business in due course and donated undisclosed amount of cash for her upkeep.
Mrs. Otti stated that the perpetrator of the violent act is presently facing the full force of the law, reinforcing the administration’s zero-tolerance approach for gender-based violence.
“Justice will be served, and no such crime will go unpunished under this administration,” she said.
According to her, the state government was taking stringent measures to combat gender-based violence. To this end, the committee responsible for protecting vulnerable groups is being strengthened with a renewed focus on ensuring swift punishment for perpetrators.
Mrs. Otti outlined several strategies rolled out in the fight against GBV, namely increased public awareness campaigns, establishment of more safe homes for victims, and the provision of legal and psychological support for survivors.
She also stressed the importance of community engagement, urging traditional leaders, local authorities, and civil society organizations to work together in reporting cases and preventing abuse at the grassroots level.
In addition, the Abia First Lady, stated that efforts were being made to train law enforcement officers to handle cases of domestic violence with sensitivity and urgency, as well as priority to ensure justice is served promptly.
She specifically urged the traditional ruler HRM Eze Allen Okpokiri, the Edeukwu II of Emede Ancient Kingdom, to take a proactive stance in the fight against GBV and use his influence to ensure the eradication of the menace.
The royal father of Emede commended Mrs. Otti for her campaigns to stamp out domestic violence, noting that her visit to the GBV survivor was a testament to the compassionate leadership now in Abia State.
“Your actions today demonstrate that the right government is in power. The righteous are in leadership, and it is evident through your commitment to justice, compassion, and service,” he said.
“The people are rejoicing because they see the care and dedication you bring,” he added.
In response to Mrs Otti, who has now become her benefactor, Amarachi poured out her immense gratitude to the Abia Fiest Lady for her intervention and continued care.
“You have been my pillar of support. May God continue to bless and guide you,” Amarachi said, shedding tears of joy and gratitude.
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