RismadarVoice Reporters, April 29, 2026
The Akwa Ibom State Government has reiterated its zero-tolerance stance on gender-based violence, vowing to ensure justice for victims and strict prosecution of offenders.
This position was made known on Wednesday by the Deputy Governor during a court sitting at the Abak Local Government Secretariat in the case of State vs. Ekong Hope Henry.
Addressing a large gathering of women who staged a peaceful protest in solidarity with the alleged victim, Rachel Samuel, the Deputy Governor condemned all forms of abuse against women, stressing that no individual deserves to be assaulted or dehumanised under any circumstance.
She assured residents that the administration of Governor Umo Eno remains committed to protecting lives and property through lawful means, adding that anyone found culpable in criminal acts would face the full weight of the law.
The protesters, dressed in black and carrying placards, called for justice for Samuel, who was reportedly assaulted and is still receiving treatment.
Urging calm, the Deputy Governor appealed to the women and the public to remain peaceful and law-abiding, while rejecting all forms of violence in society.
“No society can thrive where women are subjected to abuse and intimidation,” she said, while also advising men to exercise restraint and emotional control in their interactions.
She commended the State Gender-Based Violence Management Committee, led by the Coordinator of the Office of the First Lady, Lady Helen Obareki, for its prompt response to the incident and support for the victim.
Earlier, the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Welfare, Hon. Inibehe Etukudo, said the protest was driven by outrage over the alleged assault on the victim, describing her as vulnerable and in need of justice and continued care.
Also speaking, the APC State Woman Leader, Mrs Obonodo Uko, condemned violence against women and called for sustained efforts to protect their rights and dignity.
Meanwhile, the defendant, Ekong Hope Henry, has pleaded not guilty to a three-count charge bordering on attempted murder, causing grievous harm, and terrorism.
The presiding judge, Justice Eno Isangedighi, adjourned the case to May 20, 2026, for commencement of trial and ruling on the bail application filed by the defence. The court also fixed May 27 and June 10, 2026, for continuation of the hearing, granting the prosecution’s request for accelerated proceedings.
The prosecution team is led by the Director of Public Prosecutions, Friday Itim, alongside other state counsel.
