A group of over 100 women in Anambra took to the streets on Thursday to demand an end to gender-based violence (GBV) and harmful cultural practices, including ritual killings.
The demonstration, held in Idemili North Local Government Area, was organized by the Anambra State Ministry of Women Affairs in collaboration with the Violence Against Persons Prohibition Law Implementation Committee (VAPPLIC), with support from the Rule of Law and Anti-Corruption (RULAC) initiative.
State Coordinator of VAPPLIC, Uju Onyendilefu, who led the protest, described it as part of activities marking the 2025 International Women’s Day celebration.
She noted that similar protests would be staged across the state’s three senatorial districts.
The demonstrators held placards with messages such as “No More Rituals,” “Stop Domestic Violence,” “End Child Abuse,” and “Say No to Ritual Killings and Cultism.”
During the march, the protesters visited the residence of Nkpor’s Traditional Prime Minister, Emma Ifejika, where they voiced their concerns.
Onyendilefu reaffirmed the Anambra State government’s commitment to eliminating violence against women.
She emphasized Governor Chukwuma Soludo’s stance against harmful traditions like the ritual practice known as “Okeite” and called on community leaders to support efforts promoting gender equality and ending domestic violence.
In response, Ifejika acknowledged the long-standing presence of “Okeite” in the community and commended the government’s determination to eradicate it.
He pledged to support awareness campaigns aimed at educating the public on the dangers of ritual killings and other harmful customs.
Additionally, Ebere Nkwoka, wife of the Idemili North Council chairman, urged women to report cases of GBV and other harmful practices.
She highlighted the significance of maintaining peaceful households and revealed her ongoing school visits, where she educates women on family values and child upbringing.
As advocacy efforts continue, stakeholders stress the importance of community involvement in promoting gender equality and eliminating practices that endanger the well-being of women and children.