Enugu Launches Landmark Taskforce to Combat Gender-Based Violence

The Enugu State Government has officially inaugurated the Enugu State Gender-Based Violence (GBV) Taskforce, a move hailed by stakeholders as a historic step in combating gender-based violence across the state. The launch, held at the International Conference Centre, brought together government officials, civil society groups, traditional rulers, religious leaders, and development partners to foster coordinated efforts against GBV.

The Commissioner for Children, Gender Affairs, and Social Development, Mrs. Ngozi Enih, described the initiative as “a bold declaration that gender-based violence has no home in Enugu State.” She explained that the task force will focus on prevention, survivor protection, and ensuring accountability, stressing that ending GBV requires active participation from all sectors of society. Mrs. Enih also commended Governor Peter Mbah for creating an enabling environment through his inclusive governance and strong political will.

Speaking on behalf of civil society groups, Dr. Ifeyinwa Nneji called GBV “a moral and spiritual violation that undermines dignity and peace in communities.” She highlighted the importance of empowering individuals with preventive practices and urged families to cultivate communication, compassion, and mutual respect as the foundation of a violence-free society.

Rev’d Ikechukwu Nwaogu, Executive Director of ESERC, described the task force as a milestone in transforming GBV reporting, prevention, and prosecution in Enugu. With support from the French Embassy Fund for Civil Society, ESERC plans to implement a survivor-centered, community-driven approach previously successful under the EU-UN Spotlight Initiative in Ebonyi State. Newly appointed Taskforce Coordinator, Mrs. Genevieve Okwuowulu, emphasized the mission of the initiative: breaking cycles of silence, changing mindsets, and ensuring the full implementation of the Violence Against Persons Prohibition (VAPP) Law across communities, while making every survivor heard and every community safer.