Traditional rulers in Anambra State have taken a decisive and united stand against gender-based violence, declaring an era of firm cultural reforms and strengthened community protection mechanisms.
Angel Network News (ANN) reports that the event held at the Light House in Awka, brought together royal fathers, religious leaders, and development partners.
The gathering under the theme, “From Custodians to Champions: Redefining Culture for Gender-Based Violence Prevention and Community Protection,”
also marked the formal signing of The Royal Mandate for Gender-Based Violence Prevention and Community Protection,” a pledge that repositions traditional institutions as active protectors of human dignity across communities.
Reading the royal declaration on behalf of the Chairman of the Anambra State Traditional Rulers Council, Igwe Chidubem Iweka, the Council Secretary, Igwe Charles Agbala, stated that the commitment signifies a transformation in the role of monarchs from custodians of tradition to champions of justice and safety, and explained that by signing the pledge, traditional rulers have resolved to redefine culture to protect the vulnerable, ensure respect for human dignity, and promote awareness of the Violence Against Persons Prohibition (VAPP) Law across their kingdoms.
The Monarch emphasized that no perpetrator will find refuge under the guise of tradition, as culture must now reflect safety and respect for every individual.
In his address, the Chairman of the Multi-Stakeholder Action Committee on Gender-Based Violence Prevention, Igwe Pius Omachonu, explained that the essence of the gathering was to empower traditional rulers to take direct responsibility for prevention efforts in their respective domains
He noted that when monarchs collectively adopt preventive measures and establish community-based monitoring systems, gender-based violence can be significantly reduced, creating safer environments for women, children, and families across the state.
Also speaking, the representative of ActionAid Nigeria, Blessing Ifemenam, highlighted the pivotal role of traditional rulers in shaping social values and influencing behaviour within communities, and explained that monarchs serve as powerful agents of change capable of transforming harmful patriarchal attitudes into protective cultural values that uphold gender equality.
Speaking as a special guest, Alphonsus Nwoye called for a systematic review of certain cultural practices that may indirectly encourage gender-based violence, stressing that sustainable development in communities depends on prioritizing gender justice, access to education, improved healthcare delivery, and strengthened family economies.
According to Nwoye, reforming harmful cultural norms will not only protect vulnerable persons but also enhance overall community growth and stability.
The conference, convened by ActionAid Nigeria in partnership with the Anambra State Government, also recorded the participation and support of religious leaders who aligned with the royal mandate to strengthen advocacy against gender-based violence.
