Rivers State Government has announced a determined push to combat escalating gender-based violence, forging a key alliance with the University of Port Harcourt.
The pledge came during an advocacy visit on Wednesday, 5 November 2025, by UNIPORT’s Centre for Gender, Conflict and Development Studies, timed to coincide with the global 16 Days of Activism against violence on women, to the Secretary of Rivers State Government, Dr Benibo Anabraba.
In his address, Dr Anabraba delivered a stern warning to a spouse or partner who assaults or dehumanises the other, noting that they will face the full weight of the law.
“Governor Siminalayi Fubara is deeply concerned about the welfare of women.”
“We will neither encourage nor condone unlawful violence. We will continue to raise awareness in line with the Violence Against Persons Law in Rivers State.”
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He urged parents and citizens to report incidents immediately, noting that government agencies and programmes led by the Governor’s wife, Lady Valerie Fubara, stand ready to intervene and empower the vulnerable.
The Solicitor-General and Permanent Secretary of the Rivers State Ministry of Justice, Barrister Vera Sam Dike, highlighted practical avenues for help.
“The Office of the Public Defender and the Department of Public Prosecution are open to the public for legal support,” she said.
Director of the UniPort Centre, Dr Adaku Ubelejit-Nte, explained that the 16-day campaign—running from November 25 to December 10—seeks to sharpen public awareness and shape policy.
“We must evaluate how effectively current laws and measures are protecting women in Rivers State,” she added.
