The Enugu State Government has launched a steering committee to combat gender-based violence (GBV) through a community-focused strategy, signaling a zero-tolerance stance under Governor Peter Mbah’s administration. The committee, chaired by Commissioner for Children, Gender Affairs, and Social Development Ngozi Enih, includes representatives from key ministries, law enforcement, and civil society. During the inauguration at the Government House, Mbah emphasized a dual approach: prosecuting offenders and implementing preventive measures, such as infrastructure and systemic reforms. The governor, represented by Secretary to the State Government Chidiebere Onyia, stressed inclusivity, noting GBV affects all genders and urging men to report abuses.
The committee will adopt the “Oputa Panel approach,” touring all 17 local governments to gather grassroots insights and tailor policies to local needs. Enih explained this ensures the policy reflects community realities rather than being a generic document. The strategy aims to empower residents to demand enforcement, transforming the policy into actionable change. Quarterly progress reviews will track effectiveness, cost efficiency, and value addition. The initiative also seeks to dismantle cultural norms perpetuating GBV while protecting vulnerable groups, including men often overlooked in such frameworks.
