The Rivers State Government has restated its commitment to eradicating all forms of sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV) against women, girls, and other vulnerable groups.
The pledge was made in Port Harcourt during an advocacy visit by the Centre for Gender, Conflict and Development Studies, University of Port Harcourt, as part of activities marking the global 16 Days of Activism on the Elimination of Violence against Women and Girls.
Secretary to the State Government, Benibo Anabraba, said Governor Siminalayi Fubara remains committed to safeguarding vulnerable populations and ensuring the protection of their constitutional rights.
In a statement issued by Juliana Masi, Head of Information and Public Relations in the SSG’s office, Anabraba expressed concern over the growing cases of rape, trafficking, and domestic violence, including abuse perpetrated by spouses or partners who misuse their positions to exploit and violate victims.
He vowed that the state would take decisive action to curb such abuses.
“No one has the right to harm or dehumanize another simply because a relationship exists, whether by law or by nature. We will not condone such behaviour; in fact, we detest it,” Anabraba said.
He stressed that the government has a responsibility to prevent, deter, and punish offenders involved in rape and domestic violence, noting that the state will continue to raise awareness through laws such as the Violence Against Persons Prohibition (VAPP) Law.
Anabraba also commended the initiatives of the governor’s wife, Lady Valerie Fubara, whose independent efforts and collaboration with the Renewed Hope Initiative led by the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, are helping to empower women and vulnerable groups.
At the event, the Solicitor-General and Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Justice, Vera Sam Dike, highlighted key state institutions available to support victims, including the Office of the Public Defender and the Department of Public Prosecution.
The Director of the Centre for Gender, Conflict and Development Studies, University of Port Harcourt, Dr. Adaku Ubelejit-Nte, explained that the 16 Days of Activism, observed annually from November 25 to December 10, aims to raise awareness and influence policy on issues affecting women and vulnerable communities.