The fight against gender-based violence in Enugu State gained renewed momentum as the wife of the Governor, Her Excellency, Mrs. Nkechinyere Mbah, released a powerful statement to mark the commencement of the global 16-Day Activism Against Gender-Based Violence campaign.
In her message, the Enugu First Lady reaffirmed the administration’s unwavering commitment to protecting the rights, dignity, and safety of women, girls, and other vulnerable groups across the state. She emphasized that gender-based violence—whether physical, psychological, sexual, or economic—remains one of the most destructive social vices undermining the progress and wellbeing of families and communities.
Mrs. Mbah noted that this year’s campaign comes at a crucial time when governments, institutions, and advocacy groups must intensify efforts to eliminate all forms of abuse. She stressed that silence, cultural excuses, and societal indifference are no longer acceptable, calling on traditional rulers, religious leaders, community gatekeepers, youth organisations, and civil society actors to join hands in championing prevention, reporting, and justice.
According to her, the Enugu State Government is deepening collaborations that enhance survivor-centered interventions, expand access to legal and medical support, and strengthen existing structures to ensure that offenders are held accountable without fear or favour. She further reiterated her office’s resolve to continue empowering women and girls with the knowledge, resources, and platforms needed to live secure and productive lives.
Mrs. Mbah urged victims and their families to speak out, assuring them of confidentiality, protection, and prompt response. She called on men and boys to become allies in the struggle, emphasizing that a safe society is a collective responsibility.
The First Lady concluded her statement with a charge to all stakeholders to use the 16-Day campaign as a springboard for sustained advocacy, saying that the dream of a violence-free Enugu is achievable through unity, compassion, and justice-driven action.
