Gender-based Violence: Health Expert Urges Sexual Abuse Victims to Speak Up

By Praise Chinecherem

Supervisory Councilor for Health Idemili North and Chairman of all Supervisors for Health in Anambra State, Dr Hilary Okeke has urged victims of sexual abuse to speak up and expose peudophiles and other perpetrators of Gender -based Violence (GBV).

Okeke, a public Health Specialist and Enthusiast gave the advice during an advocacy program on GBV, Health and Menstrual Hygiene for students held at the INLGA Secretariat Ogidi.

The program attracted students from over 10 secondary schools and those from Anambra State College of Nursing Sciences.

Describing Gender-Based Violence as pressing challenge in the society, Okeke said the menace threatens not just the safety of individuals but also undermines collective progress.

He said, “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. They 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 by the doors of INLGA. I am also accessible and the police are always open for people to report.”

Okeke appreciated the host and Council q, Stanley Nkwoka, saying his unwavering leadership has continued to inspire grassroots development in the area.

Delivering his paper, Consultant Paediatrician NAUTH, Dr Ofojebe Binyelum spoke on the importance of ‘Promoting healthier families, safer communities by creating awareness on GBV and Domestic violence’.

Highlights of the event included presentation of Merit Awards to Dr Okwy Maduekwe and APGA State Woman Leader, Mrs Esther Onyekesi, Testimony of a woman whose 4 year old child was sexually abused by a 46 years old fake pastor currently in prison.

Others were drama presentations, distribution of sanitary pads and exercise books as well as scholarships offered to outstanding participants.

Among dignitaries at the occasion were Deputy Chairman, Lady Phina Onwuachu, INLGA Secretary, Paul Okoye, Chairman of all APGA LG Chairmen, Sir Okwy Maduekwe, Leader of INLGA Congress of Councillors, Samuel Anikpe, Supervisory Councilor for Agriculture and Supervisory Councilor for Education.