Abia First Lady calls for swift passage, implementation of Bill for Rehabilitation of Survivors of Ra-pe, Domestic Vio-lence, Trafficking | READ DETAILS
Abia First Lady calls for swift passage, implementation of Bill for Rehabilitation of Survivors of Ra-pe, Domestic Vio-lence, Trafficking | READ DETAILS
The First Lady of Abia State, Mrs. Priscilla Otti, has pushed for the swift passage and implementation of a bill seeking to establish a rehabilitation centre for survivors of rap-e, human trafficking, domestic v-iolence, and def-ilement in the state.
The governor’s wife made the call made during a public hearing on House Bill H.A.B. 25, held at the Abia State House of Assembly Complex. The bill, sponsored by Honourable Rowland Dennis Chikwendu, member representing Isiala Ngwa South, seeks to create a dedicated facility that will provide survivors with comprehensive support services, including medical care, legal assistance, psychological counseling, and long-term rehabilitation.
Lending her voice to the bill, Mrs. Otti described the proposed rehabilitation centre as a transformative initiative that would provide a safe space and restore hope to survivors.
“This bill represents more than just policy; it is a statement of justice, a foundation for healing, and a promise of renewed hope. I urge for its swift passage and full implementation,” she stated.
Her Excellency added that the bill if passed, will help immensely in addressing the rising social challenges confronting young people, including dr-ug a-buse and s-exual vi-olence.
Mrs. Otti outlined the proactive measures already taken by her office in collaboration with the administration of Governor Alex C. Otti. These include making girls’ education free, launching awareness campaigns to eliminate vio-lence, providing financial support to young women and survivors, and offering personalized counseling to help rebuild lives.
She further disclosed that traditional rulers, religious leaders, and law enforcement personnel across the state have received specialized training on responding to cases of sex-ual and gender-based vi-olence.
Making his own remark, the Speaker of the Abia State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Emmanuel Emeruwa, assured that the 8th Assembly remains committed to enacting laws that protect and empower citizens, especially the vulnerable.
On his own part, Hon. Rowland Chikwendu, expressed confidence that the legislation would serve as both a deterrent to offenders and a pathway to healing for survivors. He advocated that its passage would reposition Abia State as a haven of safety and dignity for women, children, and other vulnerable populations.
The public hearing drew participation from lawmakers, legal experts, civil society groups, and community leaders—signaling broad support for the bill’s swift passage and implementation.
