No fewer than 100 women in Anambra, on Thursday, took to the streets to protest an end to gender-based violence (GBV) and harmful traditional practices including ritual killings in the state.

The protest was organised by the Anambra ministry of women affairs in collaboration with the Violence Against Persons Prohibition Law Implementation Committee, (VAPPLIC) with support from the Rule of Law and Anti-Corruption, (RULAC).

The rally was held in Idemili North Local Government Area.

The state coordinator of VAPPLIC, Uju Onyendilefu, who led the women, said the protest was part of activities marking the 2025 International Women’s Day celebration.

She said the protest would take place across the three senatorial zones of the state.

The women held placards with messages such as: “No More ritual,”Okeite,” “Stop Domestic Violence,” “End Child Abuse,” and “Say No to Ritual Killings and Cultism.”

The protesters marched around the residence of the Nkpor Traditional Prime Minister, Emma Ifejika, where they registered their pain.

Ms Onyendilefu reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to eradicating violence against women.

She said that Gov. Chukwuma Soludo had declared zero tolerance for harmful practices like ritualist “Okeite” and called on communities to support the ongoing reforms.

The woman leader urged community leaders to adopt measures that promoted gender equality, end domestic violence, and eliminate harmful cultural practices.

In his response, Mr Ifejika acknowledged that ‘Okeite’ had been a long-standing issue affecting the community.

He expressed gratitude to the government for tackling the practice, noting its negative impact on cultural values and religious development.

He pledged his support and promised that efforts would be made to educate the community about eliminating money rituals “Okeite” and other harmful traditions.

He said that as Anambra state pushed for reforms, stakeholders continued to emphasise the need for community involvement in promoting gender equality and ending practices that threatened the well-being of women and children.

Ebere Nkwoka, wife of the Idemmili North Council chairman, encouraged women to report cases of GBV and other harmful practices.

She highlighted the importance of a peaceful home environment and disclosed her ongoing school visits to educate women on family harmony and child upbringing.

(NAN)