Stakeholders in Ogu town, Ogu/Bolo Local Government Area of Rivers State, have lauded the Rivers State Multi-Stakeholder Action Committee on Gender-Based Violence (GBV) Prevention for its sensitisation programme, describing it as timely and impactful.
The Chairman of Ogu Divisional Council of Chiefs, Chief (Barr.) Lawrence Abiabiari, who was represented by Chief Stephen Mina-Omubo, said the initiative was a welcome development and an eye-opener for many in the community.
According to him, the engagement illuminated critical issues such as rape and abandonment, adding that some residents were previously unaware that women could also be perpetrators of sexual violence.
He commended the committee for addressing sensitive but pressing concerns and expressed optimism that participants would cascade the knowledge gained to others within the community. He also called for regular sensitisation programmes and assured the organisers of the community’s full support.
In her remarks, the Coordinator of the Rivers State Multi-Stakeholder Action Committee on Gender Based Violence Prevention, Barr. Evelyn Membere-Asimiea, said the programme was designed to equip residents with knowledge needed to prevent and respond effectively to GBV cases.
She described the turnout as impressive and beyond expectations, attributing the success of the programme to collaborative support from partners, including ActionAid Nigeria and the Ford Foundation.
Membere-Asimiea urged survivors of GBV to seek help at the Rivers State Sexual Assault Referral Centre, located at No. 32 Nembe Street, Borokiri, Port Harcourt, and managed by the Rivers State Ministry of Social Welfare and Rehabilitation. She also advised victims to contact the Office of the Public Defender under the state Ministry of Justice for legal support on GBV-related matters.
She further disclosed plans to extend the sensitisation campaign to other local government areas, including Ikwerre LGA, as part of efforts to deepen awareness and foster safer communities across the state.
“We plan to replicate this success in other communities to create a safer environment for all in Rivers State,” she said.
Earlier, the Head of the Advocacy Sub-Committee, Barr. Ere Boma, provided an overview of gender-based violence, outlining its various forms — sexual, domestic, economic and psychological abuse — and their far-reaching consequences.
She urged participants, including traditional rulers, community leaders, women and representatives of civil society organisations, to take collective responsibility in confronting GBV, supporting survivors and promoting a culture of respect and equality.
The Atlantic Bell reports that the programme, themed “Ending Gender-Based Violence Starts with Us,” featured interactive sessions on rights awareness, prevention strategies and available support services, alongside question-and-answer engagements with attendees.
