Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, has signed into law a bill establishing a rehabilitation centre for survivors of rape, defilement, domestic violence and human trafficking in the state.
The law, titled the Abia State Centre for the Rehabilitation of Survivors of Rape, Defilement, Domestic Violence and Human Trafficking Law, 2026, was assented to on Monday at the Government House, Umuahia.
Speaking at the signing ceremony, Otti commended the Abia State House of Assembly for the swift passage of the bill and acknowledged the contributions of key stakeholders, including government officials and his wife, Priscilla Otti, in its development.
“I want to thank the House of Assembly for giving this bill an expedited hearing and passing it in record time. I would also like to salute Her Excellency for championing this bill,” the governor said.
He also praised the commissioners for Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation and Social Protection for their roles in drafting the legislation.
However, the governor stressed that beyond establishing rehabilitation centres, there was a need for broader societal reorientation to address the root causes of gender-based violence.
“While we are going to set up a few more centres, it is my conviction that there is no need for that in the long term. The real issue is reorientation,” Otti said.
He described rape, child abuse and human trafficking as practices alien to Igbo culture, noting that such offences were traditionally condemned and punished.
Otti added that his administration was also focused on job creation to keep young people engaged and reduce the risk of criminal behaviour.
Presenting the bill for assent, the Speaker of the Abia State House of Assembly, Emmanuel Emeruwa, said it underwent due legislative process and received accelerated consideration due to its importance.
“This bill deals with the rehabilitation of victims of rape and other violence, and that is why it received very speedy passage. I am proud to be associated with it,” he said.
Mrs Otti, who initiated the bill, said the legislation would provide hope and structured support for survivors.
“I am very elated that this has come to fruition. This bill gives hope to our women and girls, ensuring they receive support, rehabilitation and care to move forward,” she said.
She also thanked the State Assembly and other stakeholders for supporting the initiative.
