Lawrence Nwimo, Awka
The Rule of Law and Anti-Corruption (RoLAC) Programme has called on the Anambra State Government and community stakeholders to expedite actions aimed at tackling barriers hindering women’s well-being and access to justice in the state.
RoLAC Project Coordinator in Anambra, Dr Josephine Onah, made the call in Enugwu-Agidi, Njikoka Local Government Area, during a town hall meeting and media engagement to commemorate the 2026 International Women’s Day.
She stressed the need to move beyond rhetoric to tangible actions, emphasizing the importance of creating a secure environment that addresses women’s rights issues in the state.
The event, themed “Rights, Justice, Action for All Women and Girls,” was organised by the Anambra State Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development with support from the Rule of Law and Anti-Corruption (RoLAC) Programme.
RoLAC Phase II is funded by the European Union and implemented in Nigeria by the International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance (I-IDEA).
Onah noted that despite progress in promoting women’s rights, many women and girls still face violence, stressing that deliberate action must be taken beyond policies and commitments to ensure their freedom and access to justice.
“We use this year’s celebration of International Women’s Day to remind ourselves that many people are still not living free from violence. Every woman and girl child should live free from violence every day of their lives.
“We gather to raise conversations and remind gatekeepers, traditional rulers and those in government that issues relating to women must go beyond policies and commitments.
“That is the action aspect captured in this year’s theme. All of us must join forces to ensure barriers are removed and safe spaces are created for women. We have to move into action and intentionally address the limitations affecting women,” she said.
Onah also stressed the importance of collective action in creating safe environments for women, urging them to speak up, support one another and report incidents of violence through appropriate channels in their communities.
“We want women to be their sisters’ keepers and support one another. When we see things happening in our villages and communities, we should report them through the appropriate channels. People must speak up and pursue justice,” she added.
Speaking at the event, the Permanent Secretary, Anambra State Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Welfare, Chinwe Achugbu, described women as unsung heroes who have contributed significantly to societal development.
She noted that the programme was aimed at educating women on available avenues for seeking justice when their rights are violated.
“We are carrying out this community enlightenment to sensitise women and show them the routes to access justice. We do not just want them to know their rights but also how to seek justice when those rights are violated,” she said.
Achugbu added that the inclusion of women in governance has been a key achievement of Governor Chukwuma Soludo’s administration, noting that the government has also taken steps to domesticate laws aimed at protecting women and children.
Vice President-General of Enugwu-Agidi Brotherly Development Union (BDU), Comrade Emeka Ementa, acknowledged that many injustices still affect women in society. He commended RoLAC for the sensitisation initiative, saying it would help guide the community towards building a more peaceful society.
Presenting papers on “Accessing Justice and Legal Protection for Women,” rights activists Chukwudozie Ifiora and Rachael Yohanna guided participants on steps to take in accessing justice and protecting their rights. They also familiarised them with key legal instruments needed to navigate the justice system.
Coordinator of the Child Protection Network (CPN) in Anambra State, Mrs Eucharia Anekwe, stressed the need for community action to end harmful traditional practices and urged community leaders to partner with relevant institutions to protect women’s rights.
Meanwhile, Ugochi Freeman, who spoke on “Building Women,” encouraged parents to begin positive change from their homes and urged women to play active roles in raising responsible children to help build a better society.
Other speakers, including Mrs Loveth Onyendilefu, Coordinator of the VAPP Law Committee in the state, maintained that women should enjoy equal rights and opportunities as men. They also advocated stronger support systems to help women seek justice whenever their rights are violated.
