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Over 100 women in Anambra took to the streets on Thursday to demand an end to gender-based violence (GBV) and harmful traditional practices, including ritual killings.
The protest, 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) program.
Leading the demonstration, VAPPLIC State Coordinator Uju Onyendilefu said the protest was part of the activities marking the 2025 International Women’s Day celebration and would be extended to the three senatorial zones of the state.
The women carried placards with messages such as “No More Rituals,” “Stop Domestic Violence,” “End Child Abuse,” and “Say No to Ritual Killings and Cultism.”
The protesters marched to the residence of the Traditional Prime Minister of Nkpor, Emma Ifejika, to express their concerns. Onyendilefu reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to ending violence against women, stating that Governor Chukwuma Soludo had declared zero tolerance for harmful practices, including ritual killings known as “Okeite.”
She urged community leaders to support ongoing reforms and implement measures that promote gender equality and eliminate domestic violence.
In response, Ifejika acknowledged the deep-rooted nature of “Okeite” and commended the government’s efforts to address it.
He pledged his support for sensitizing the community on the dangers of ritual killings and harmful traditions.
Meanwhile, Ebere Nkwoka, wife of the Idemili North Council chairman, encouraged women to report cases of GBV and harmful cultural practices.
She emphasized the importance of a peaceful home environment and shared her efforts in visiting schools to educate women on family harmony and child upbringing.
As the push for reforms continues, stakeholders stress the need for community participation in promoting gender equality and eliminating practices that threaten the well-being of women and children.