By Maureen Agbala
Traditional rulers in Anambra State have taken a decisive stand against gender-based violence (GBV), pledging to leverage their cultural authority to foster safer and more equitable communities.
The commitment was made at a stakeholders’ conference organised in Awka by ActionAid Nigeria in collaboration with the Anambra State Government. Addressing participants, Miss Blessing Ifemenam, representative of ActionAid Nigeria, underscored the critical role of monarchs in shaping societal values and influencing behaviour at the grassroots.
The conference, themed -“From Custodians to Champions: Redefining Culture for Gender-Based Violence Prevention and Community Protection,”- assembled traditional rulers from across Anambra State. The monarchs unanimously declared zero tolerance for GBV and committed to reinforcing community-based protection mechanisms, culminating in the signing of a Royal Mandate for Gender-Based Violence Prevention.
Miss Ifemenam stated that, as custodians of culture, traditional rulers possess the authority to transform harmful patriarchal norms into values that promote gender equality and protect vulnerable groups.
Presenting the royal declaration on behalf of the Chairman, Anambra State Traditional Rulers Council, Igwe Chidubem Iweka, the Council Secretary, Chief Charles Agbala, described the pledge as a significant shift in leadership responsibility. He said the move represents a transition from merely preserving tradition to actively championing justice, safety, and human dignity.
Chief Agbala explained that the monarchs had resolved to review and redefine cultural practices to enhance the protection of vulnerable persons and to deepen public awareness of the Violence Against Persons Prohibition (VAPP) Act within their domains. He stressed that perpetrators of violence would no longer be shielded under the cover of tradition.
Also speaking, Mr. Pius Omachonu, Chairman of the Multi-Stakeholder Action Committee on GBV Prevention, said the initiative seeks to empower monarchs to take ownership of prevention efforts. He added that the adoption of community-based monitoring systems would reduce GBV incidents and create safer environments for women, children, and families.
In his remarks, Mr. Alphonsus Nwoye called for a critical review of cultural practices that may indirectly perpetuate violence. He noted that sustainable development hinges on prioritising gender justice, expanding access to education and healthcare, and strengthening family economies.
Maureen is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State
