…Urge victims of GBV to Speak up
By Uzo Ugwunze
It was great, impactful and enriching as the Supervisory Councilor for Health Idemili North, Chairman of all Supervisors for Health in Anambra State, Dr Hilary Nkem Okeke embarked on an advocacy programme on Gender -based Violence (GBV), Health and Menstrual Hygiene for students in the Council Area.
Okeke, a public health specialist and enthusiast urged victims to speak up, expose peudophiles and other perpetrators of GBV.
Students from not lesser than 10 secondary schools and the students of Anambra State College of Nursing Sciences converged in their numbers at the INLGA Secretariat Ogidi to receive quality lectures from a consultant Paediatrician NAUTH, Dr Ofojebe Binyelum who spoke on the importance of ‘promoting healthier families, safer communities by creating awareness on GBV and domestic violence’.
According to Dr Okeke, this initiative,
Gender-based violence remains a pressing challenge in society. It threatens not just the safety of individuals but also undermines collective progress.
“As we deliberate today, let us remember that true development cannot thrive in the
absence of equality, respect, and justice.
“Equally important is the issue of menstrual hygiene, which for too long has been clouded by stigma, silence, and neglect. Good menstrual health is a right and not a privilege. it is linked to dignity, education, and overall well-being. By addressing this openly, we empower our young girls to live healthier, more confident lives and ensure that no child is held back from school or opportunity because of a natural biological process.
“I encourage the students to speak up anytime they experience any kind GBV. You should not die in silence. No matter how you have been threatened try to speak up.Also, parents should not be talked out of speaking up under the guise of facing societal stigma.
“We have a high level of awareness already in Idemili North and our response team are taking it beyond the shores of the LGA. We are looking forward to establishing Distress call lines but the doors of INLGA. I am also accessible and the police are always open for people to report.
“.Permit me to specially acknowledge the presence of our host, Our Mayor, Chief Hon Sir Stanley Nkwoka Ochendo Idemili whose unwavering leadership continues to inspire grassroots development in our LGA’.
In attendance include the Deputy Mayor Lady Phina Onwuachu, INLGA Secretary, Hon Paul Chidubem Okoye, Chairman of the Occasion and Chairman of all APGA LG Chairmen, Sir Okwy Maduekwe, Distinguished State Party Woman Leader
Mrs Esther Chinyere Onyekesi represented by Mrs Mefor wife of Anambra Commissioner for Information, Leader of INLGA Congress of Councillors, Hon Samuel Anikpe, Supervisory Councilor for Agriculture and Supervisory Councilor for Education.
Highlights of the GBV advocacy program include presentation of Merit Awards to Dr. Sir Okwy Maduekwe and APGA party State Woman Leader, Hon Mrs Esther Onyekesi, Testimony of a woman whose 4 year old child was sexually abused by a 46 years old fake pastor but now remanded in prison awaiting trial via our efforts, Drama presentations, distribution of Sanitary pads and exercise books, and scholarships offer to outstanding participants.
