16-day Activism: Women Affairs Commissioner cautions against rape, sexual abuse, child labour

ThankGod Emeh…

In commemoration of the 2025 16-day Activism, Imo State Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Welfare has cautioned against rape, sexual abuses and child labour in the state.

The Commissioner for Women Affairs, Lady Nkechinyere Ugwu UNJP said that gender-based violence, child labour, and rape among other stereotype issues in society with a particular emphasis on digital violence against women and girls need to stop as the 16-day campaign starts on Tuesday November 25, 2025 to Wednesday December 10, 2025.

According to her, “Planned activities include road work, radio talk shows, and awareness campaigns aimed at vulnerable groups, including the elderly and physically challenged in society with the theme ‘Unite to End Digital Violence Against All Women and Girls’ which has over time sparked some debate regarding its relevance compared to immediate physical violence issues”.

The Commissioner who highlighted the implementation of laws such as the Violence Against Persons Prohibition (VAPP) law and the State Action Plan against Female Genital Mutilation (FGM), in a press briefing yesterday said the ministry also addresses broader social welfare issues, such as family violence, child welfare, and the challenges of runaway children.

Hon. Ugwu while expressing appreciation to Imo Governor Hope Uzodimma and Wife Barr Chioma Uzodimma for walking the talks by putting laws and policies in place to curb gender based violence, lauded other frontline responders on gender based violence, civil society organizations, critical stakeholders and other non state actors for their collaborative efforts in addressing and furthering the advocacy on ending all forms of Gender Based Violence and especially harmful traditional practices being metted out to widows, women, girls and vulnerable members of the society.

“The Imo State First Lady, Barr. (Dr) Chioma Uzodimma has gone beyond just talks – she goes out of her way, through this ministry to reach out and to ensure that all stereotypes and glass ceilings are pulled down for women to rediscover themselves and reach their desired careers.

“The Imo State Government, led by Senator Hope Uzodimma, has put in place laws and policies to curb gender-based violence, including the VAPP law, State Action Plan against FGM as we work on the Women’s Economic Empowerment (WEE) Policy and Action Plan”

The Commissioner however made a call for public participation, unity and continued advocacy to address pressing social issues as she noted the Ministry’s efforts to ban Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) in the state, with maternity homes posing a significant challenge, stressing that the government cannot do it alone.

“I urge all stakeholders to participate in this year’s activities and make a difference. Together, we can create a safer, more equitable society for all”

She said the ministry faces difficulties with false reports and societal pressures, adding that ongoing efforts are directed at addressing child labor and widowhood practices by considering the establishment of a half warehouse and providing support to affected widows.

The revered Social Welfare Commissioner popularly known as “Mama Palliative” noted that the ministry is set to offer support packages to the elderly and physically challenged persons by December as the ministry remains committed to supporting vulnerable populations, especially during festive periods.

She equally encouraged men to come forward with issues of domestic violence as the Ministry is open to all genders in society and as well poised to ensure social welfare across boards.

According to the Women Affairs and Social Welfare Commissioner; better ways to improve the reporting and handling of gender-based violence cases are being explored, including potential use of a social register.

The Commissioner also pointed out the plan of the Ministry to develop a programme to educate parents as well as increase public awareness on responsible parenting and population control, adding that reduced number of children per family helps parents to cater for them and take them away from the streets.