Otti Inaugurates Aba Sexual Assault Referral Centre

Governor Alex Otti of Abia State has inaugurated the Nchedo Sexual Assault Referral Centre (SARC) in Aba, strengthening the state’s response to sexual and gender-based violence.

The facility, located within the premises of Aba General Hospital, was established through a partnership between the Abia State Government and the European Union-funded Rule of Law and Anti-Corruption (RoLAC) Programme. It is designed to provide comprehensive, survivor-centred services in a secure and confidential environment. Speaking during the commissioning, Otti described the centre as a critical intervention in tackling gender-based violence in the state. He said the initiative reflects his administration’s commitment to protecting vulnerable citizens and ensuring that survivors receive prompt medical care, psychosocial support and access to justice. The governor noted that the establishment of the centre would reduce the trauma survivors often face when moving between hospitals, police stations and other agencies in search of help. He added that the state government would continue to strengthen institutional collaboration to curb abuse and promote accountability. The Nchedo SARC will offer 24-hour free services, including emergency medical treatment, forensic examinations, post-exposure prophylaxis, trauma counselling, legal guidance and referrals to shelters where necessary. Officials said all services would be handled with strict confidentiality to encourage reporting and protect survivors from stigma. Nigeria’s Minister of Women Affairs, Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, who spoke at the event, described gender-based violence as a widespread and under-reported challenge affecting women, men, girls and boys across the country. She commended the Abia State Government for aligning with national efforts to expand access to Sexual Assault Referral Centres. According to her, Nigeria now has over 50 SARCs across 24 states, supporting tens of thousands of survivors, but more facilities are needed to ensure nationwide coverage and timely intervention. The First Lady of Abia State, Priscilla Otti, described the centre as a symbol of hope and protection for survivors. She called for similar facilities to be established in other senatorial zones of the state to make support services more accessible. Development partners at the event reiterated their commitment to supporting gender equality and strengthening institutional frameworks to address violence and protect survivors.