The Rivers government reiterated its commitment to eradicating all forms of sexual and gender-based violence against women, girls, and other vulnerable persons. 

The secretary to the state government, Benibo Anabraba, disclosed this during an advocacy programme held to mark the 16 Days of Activism for the Elimination of Violence against Women and Girls.

The event was organised by the Centre for Gender, Conflict and Development Studies at the University of Port Harcourt on Wednesday.

Mr Anabraba stated that Governor Siminalayi Fubara’s administration was committed to protecting all persons, especially women and the vulnerable, and would not condone abuses such as rape, trafficking, and domestic violence.

He stressed that the law would take its course against perpetrators and urged the public to report all cases of violence to the appropriate authorities. He further appealed to parents to educate their girl-children about gender-based violence.

The Rivers justice ministry’s solicitor-general and permanent secretary, Vera Dike, listed the offices that could provide assistance in cases of rape and other crimes against women and the girl child.

Ms Dike mentioned that some of these intervention offices included the outreach programme initiated by the Rivers’ first lady, Valerie Fubara.

The outreach is working in partnership with the Renewed Hope Initiative of Oluremi Tinubu (Nigeria’s first lady) to promote empowerment and welfare for women and other vulnerable persons.

(NAN)