Rivers Government Reaffirms Commitment To Eradicating Sexual and Gender-Based Violence
BY STEPHEN CHUKS
THE Rivers State Government has restated its commitment to eliminating all forms of sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV) against women, girls, and vulnerable persons across the state.
The Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Dr. Benibo Anabraba, made the declaration during an advocacy programme organised to mark the 16 Days of Activism on the Elimination of Violence Against Women and Girls.
The event, held on Wednesday at the University of Port Harcourt, was hosted by the Centre for Gender, Conflict and Development Studies in partnership with key stakeholders promoting gender justice.
Rivers Govt. Will Not Tolerate Abuse – Anabraba
Dr. Anabraba reaffirmed that the administration of Governor Siminalayi Fubara is fully committed to protecting the rights and dignity of every resident, particularly women, girls, and vulnerable persons.
He warned that the government would not tolerate acts of sexual assault, domestic violence, human trafficking, or any other form of abuse.
“The law will take its full course against perpetrators of gender-based violence,” Anabraba said, urging members of the public to report all such cases to the appropriate authorities.
He also encouraged parents and guardians to educate their children—especially girls—about their rights and how to identify and report cases of abuse or exploitation.
Justice Ministry Highlights Help Desks for Victims
The Solicitor-General and Permanent Secretary of the Rivers State Ministry of Justice, Mrs. Vera Dike, outlined several government offices and support channels available to assist victims of sexual and gender-based violence.
Dike highlighted the outreach programme initiated by the Wife of the State Governor, Lady Valerie Fubara, which partners with the Renewed Hope Initiative of the First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu.
The collaboration aims to promote women’s empowerment, welfare, and rehabilitation for survivors of abuse.
Raising Awareness Through Global 16 Days of Activism
The Director of the Centre for Gender, Conflict and Development Studies, Dr. Adaku Ubelejit-Nte, explained that the Global 16 Days of Activism campaign is an international movement designed to raise awareness, influence policy, and inspire action to end violence against women and girls worldwide.
She commended the Rivers State Government for aligning with global best practices in its effort to protect human rights and promote gender equality.
“Ending gender-based violence requires collective effort—from families, institutions, and government agencies—to build a safer society for women and girls,” Dr. Ubelejit-Nte stated.
