Otti Asures Justice for Victims of Gender-Based Violence
The first Lady of Abia State, Mrs. Priscilla Otti, has promised to use her position to chase and secure justice for all victims of gender-based violence in the state.
The first lady made this known when she visited Mrs. Amarachi Okpokiri, who, by the whiskers, survived a fierce attack by her husband, who reportedly tried to pluck her eyes for ritual purposes while she was asleep.
The visit, which was the second visit the First Lady would be visiting Amarachi, took place at the palace of HRM Eze Allen Okpokiri, of Emede Ibeku Umuahia, Amarachi’s uncle.
Mrs. Otti, who thanked God for the amazing and speedy recovery of Amarachi’s sight and vowed that the suspect would not go unpunished.
The first lady who affirmed that “the perpetrators of this violent act are facing the full force of the law” reaffirmed the government's zero-tolerance approach to gender-based violence.
She pledged that justice would be served and that no crime of this nature would go unpunished under her administration.
She said the Abia State Government is dedicated to eradicating gender-based violence.
“The panel in charge of protecting vulnerable groups is being reinforced, with a renewed focus on ensuring rapid justice for offenders," she said.
Additionally, she noted that “Abia State will be a threatening atmosphere for anyone engaged in gender-based violence, especially against women and children.”
Mrs. Otti listed numerous tactics she had approved in the fight against the affliction, including raised public awareness campaigns, the set up of more safe houses for victims, and the provision of legal and psychological support for survivors.
Stressing the need for community engagement, the first lady urged traditional leaders, local authorities, and civil society organisations to work together in reporting cases and stopping abuse at the grassroots level.