Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, has signed into law legislation establishing a rehabilitation centre for survivors of rape, defilement, domestic violence and human trafficking. The governor assented to the Abia State Centre for the Rehabilitation of Survivors of Rape, Defilement, Domestic Violence and Human Trafficking Law, 2026, at the Government House in Umuahia on Monday.
Otti commended the Abia State House of Assembly for the expedited passage of the bill and acknowledged contributions from government officials, including the Commissioner for Women Affairs, the Ministry of Poverty Alleviation and Social Protection, and his wife, Priscilla Otti, who initiated the proposal.
The governor said the law would provide structured support and recovery services for survivors, while emphasising the need for broader societal reorientation to address the root causes of gender-based violence. He added that his administration was also pursuing job creation initiatives to engage youths and discourage criminal behaviour.
Speaker of the Abia State House of Assembly, Emmanuel Emeruwa, said the bill underwent legislative procedures and received accelerated consideration due to its importance in supporting victims of violence.
Priscilla Otti said the law would offer hope and rehabilitation for affected individuals, noting that it aims to provide survivors with the support needed to rebuild their lives. She also thanked lawmakers and stakeholders for backing the initiative.
