Helen Obareki condemns cases of sexual assault, domestic violence

Ini Billie, Uyo

The coordinator, office of the First Lady, Akwa Ibom State, Lady Helen Eno Obareki has described incidents of domestic violence as troubling.

Obareki who is the Chairperson, Akwa Ibom State Gender Based Management Committee (AKSGBVMC), condemned the 1,410 cases of sexual assault, domestic violence, and Gender Based-Violence so far recorded by the committee.

Speaking during a press conference on Wednesday at the Government House, Uyo, Obareki revealed that  AKSGBVMC recently rescued three human trafficking survivors, and arrested six persons for defiling a 14-year-old boy.

Noting that the committee has initiated legal proceedings against perpetrators, as well as established a reporting mechanism, the acting first stated that all cases of SGBV are not only a violation of human rights but also a taint on the society’s reputation.

She urged the public to report cases of sexual abuse, and domestic and gender-based violence and encouraged victims to speak out immediately.

“We have called this press conference to address the recent and deeply troubling incidents of domestic violence, sexual assault, and Gender-Based Violence in our state. These acts are not only a violation of human rights but also a stain on our collective conscience as a society.

“While we acknowledge the progress made, we recognizs that there is still much work to be done. We remain committed to ensuring justice for survivors, holding perpetrators accountable, and creating a safer environment for all. Let us break the culture of silence together. Let us stand united against GBV,” she stated.

While speaking, Secretary of the State GBV Management Committee, Barr. Emem Etteh said seven years is the age of criminal liability in Nigeria, adding that any child accused of GBV crimes who fall within this age range will be placed in a rehabilitation facility.

Etteh mentioned that over 1,410 GBV cases handled by the committee were primarily intimate partner abuse, adding that AKSGBVMC regularly engages with the traditional rulers’ councils, stakeholders, and communities, including markets, schools, and public spaces.

She stated that AKSGBVMC conducts sensitisation campaigns targeted at breaking the silence surrounding GBV, reducing societal stigma, and encouraging individuals to speak out.

She explained that bylaws have been adopted to address the increasing cases of GBV in rural areas, where customary punishment is often favoured.