Nnewi North Women Pledge to End Gender-Based Violence and Ritual Killings

Women in Nnewi North Local Government Area of Anambra State have renewed their commitment to eliminating killings, rape, ritual practices, and other harmful vices affecting the industrial city.  

The wife of the Council Chairman, Hon. Echezona Akachukwu, made this declaration during a road walk campaign along major streets in the area as part of activities marking the 2025 International Women’s Day celebration.  

Over 200 women participated in the march, carrying placards with bold messages against violence and crime. Some of the inscriptions read, "Violence is a no-no for Anambra Women," "Ezenwanyi is not our culture, no rascality," "Victims of GBV should speak out," and "Support Mr. Governor’s war against crime."  

Speaking to journalists after the rally, the mayor’s wife expressed concern over the increasing cases of gender-based and domestic violence in the area. She noted that the walk was aimed at raising awareness and educating the public on the dangers of these crimes.  

She also urged parents and young people to stay away from harmful traditional practices such as oke ite and the fake portrayals of Ezenwanyi and Dibias. She emphasized that the current administration is determined to put an end to all forms of social misconduct and would not tolerate lawlessness in any form.  

"We embarked on this road walk, called Walk for Life, which is taking place simultaneously across all 21 local government areas in Anambra State," she said.  

"It is a movement designed to protest against all kinds of societal evils, including rape, killings, and ritual practices. By bringing these issues into public discussion, we believe we can help put an end to them."  

She further revealed plans to introduce a Healthy Living Exercise program to encourage women to remain physically active and fit. Additionally, she announced that the council intends to establish a farm within the local government, focusing on vegetable and plantain plantations to support food security and economic empowerment.  

Also speaking at the event, Mrs. Anekwe Eucharia, Executive Director of the Gender Perspective and Social Development Center and a member of the Violence Against Persons (VAP) Implementation Committee, described the theme of this year’s International Women’s Day, "Accelerating Action," as timely and relevant.  

She expressed gratitude to organizations such as the Rule of Law and Anti-Corruption (RoLAC) program, the European Union, International Ideas, and the Anambra State Government through the Ministry of Women Affairs in collaboration with Supporters of Good Governance.  

"We reminded women of the need to take swift action in advancing gender equality and eliminating gender-based violence," she said.  

The event reinforced the collective resolve of Nnewi North women to build a safer and more just society by addressing deep-rooted cultural and criminal practices.