Women

Odual Women’s Peace Mission

Published

11 years ago

March 27, 2015

A group picture of the women’s wing of Odual Peoples Assembly during the campaign

These are not the best of
times for communities across Rivers State and other parts of Nigeria, following the tensions that have continued to build up as a result of the forthcoming general elections.
Indeed, there are palpable fears across the land that the elections may likely generate violence.
Consequently, many communities social groups and even the traditional institutions across the country are now mounting series of peace campaigns in their respective communities and kingdoms.
One of such groups is the women wing of the Odual People Assembly (OPA) which is not left out in the campaign to ensure peace in Odual Communities in the Abua/Odual Local Government Area.
The president of the women’s wing of the Odual Peoples Assembly, Mrs. Jessey Edeh told The Tide that the women who are all based in Port Harcourt decided that it would be better to go home and tell the youths of the dangers involved in electoral violence.
Edeh said that Odual Kingdom which is made up of nine communities is too small to lose any of its youths in election this time around as successive government in which the people have worked for have not cared to develop the area.
“We felt that as mothers, there is no point sitting in Port Harcourt, so we decided to carry the campaign to the youths in the communities”, she said.
The campaign train which took of from Port Harcourt , the state capital, moved round the whole of the nine communities of Odual Kingdom in the Abua/Odual Local Government Area.
The first port of call was Odau, then Obedum Emiriopoko and Anya.
The campaign train also moved to Ekunuga Okolomade Emelogo, Adada and Ogboloma communities.
In each of the communities a drama sketch highlighting the dangers of electoral violence and youth restiveness was showcased.
The OPA women boss alerted the large gathering of the people in each of the communities of the dangers of electoral violence.
Explaining that the Association is apolitical and only interested in the welfare of Odual youths, Edeh warned against selling of their permanent voters cards (PVC) as doing that will amount to mortgaging their destiny and the future of their generations.
“We have been marginalized for too long and we are too small to lose my of you”, she pleaded.
She assured that the group will partner with Community Development Committees (CDCs) traditional rulers and chiefs and opinion leaders to pass the message to the youths.
“We have to tell our people to make wise decisions by voting for people that can charge our conditions”, she said.
Also speaking Mrs. Edna Abigo maintained that the mission of the women is for peace in Odual Kingdom “we don’t want any of you to lose your life Odual is too smale to lose you there must be peace during and after the elections”, on his port, the Oolema Odual HRM King Temple Jamalla said that no Odual youth must be used as a sacrificial lamb to advance the interest of any politician.
The monarch who gave the warming when the campaign train visited his palace at Emelego the headquarters of Odual Kingdom described peace as the only anti dot for development in Odual Kingdom.
“Peace and development are intertwined my appeal is that there should be peace and development in Odual”, Jamala advised.
He described the mission of the women as very crucial to the peace and development of Odual Kingdom, adding that his palace would give them full support.
“You are in the right path this Kingdom is proud of you and would be ready to support you to achieve peace in Odual Kingdom.
“I urged you to continue with the path you have chosen to bring peace to Odual”, he said.
For Chief Deacon Tom Omeri Abigo, no bloodshed will be recorded in Odual during the election.
Abigo a former permanent secretary, governor’s office, Port Harcourt, spoke when the women visited Ekunuga his home town.
The senior citizen who is also the head chief of Ekunuga, said the Kingdom is too small to contain any act of violence and restiveness.
He said that for leaving the comfort of Port Harcourt to the communities for campaign, the women have indeed shown that they are the mothers of Odual.
Similarly, former member of the House of Representatives, Barrister Friday Abigo descried the campaign as first of its find in Odual Kingdom.
Abigo said that the issue of peace in Odual was a subject of discussion at the meeting of Odual council of chiefs and a directive has been issued to all town criers in the kingdom to tell the people to work for peace during the elections.
The Oolema of Okolomade, Chief Mondibo James said that the mission of the women would surely bring good things to Odual Kingdom, stressing that the same issue of peace was also disclosed during a meeting with the Divisional Police Office (DPO) incharged of Abua/Odual Division.
The Okolomade Monarch said that, he is happy that the women are on the same mission of peace, adding that indigenes of Okolomde have already been instructed to conduct themselves in a peaceful manner during and after the elections.
The same message of support for peace during he elections was echoed by chairmen of the respective Community Development Committee (COC).
The chairman, community development committee of Odau, Mr. Sokari Ikechekwu led the pack of other CDC chairmen in the area to pledge their support for the peace campaign and the assurance to take the message to their people in their respective homes.
The other CDC chairmen include that of Obedum, Mr. Enoch Itoyo, his counterpart at Emirikpoko Stephen Amos and that of Anyu, Chief Godwin Gabriel.
The rest are the CDC chairman of Ekunuga, Mr. Anthony Isaiah Abigo, that of Okolomade Selemi I. Elogho, Emelego Mr. Heart Udidia; and that of Adada community.
They all pledged their support to the peace campaign.
However in the eyes of the public, the mission of the women was a worthwhile venture but its effect will be put to test during and after the elections

Women

How to Tackle Child Rape

Published

22 hours ago

February 27, 2026

The Tide

Child rape is a profound human rights violation that inflicts lasting physical, emotional, and psychological scars on its victims.

Among the most vulnerable groups, girl children face a disproportionate amount of sexual abuse globally, reflecting deep-rooted societal, cultural, and systemic failures.

Despite international laws and local measures aimed at protecting children, rape and sexual violence against girl children remain a pervasive problem in many parts of the world. The rape of girl children is alarmingly prevalent worldwide.

According to data from the World Health Organization (WHO), one in four girls experiences some form of sexual abuse before the age of 18. This abuse occurs across all socio-economic, cultural, and geographical divides. The underreporting of sexual violence against children, fueled by fear, stigma, and victim-blaming, makes it difficult to grasp the true scale of the problem.

Reports from organizations like UNICEF and Human Rights Watch highlight that in some regions, girl children are specifically targeted due to the belief that they are “pure” or “virgin,” making them more vulnerable to cultural myths that suggest intercourse with a virgin can cure diseases like HIV/AIDS. These deeply harmful beliefs exacerbate the risk for young girls, particularly in countries where educational and legal protections are weak.

A range of factors contributes to the high incidence of rape against girl children, many of which are embedded in patriarchal and misogynistic beliefs. In some cultures, girls are viewed as inferior or subservient to males, making them easy targets for exploitation. The normalization of gender-based violence in some communities means that abuse often goes unnoticed, unreported, or unpunished.

Child marriages, which remain prevalent in some parts of Africa, Asia, and the Middle East, are another contributing factor. When girls are married off as children, they are often exposed to sexual violence under the guise of marital relations. These young brides, who are typically powerless in these situations, often endure repeated sexual abuse from their significantly older husbands.

Additionally, in conflict zones, girl children are disproportionately affected by sexual violence, used as tools of war by armed groups to terrorize communities. Such exploitation results in severe trauma and long-lasting consequences for victims.

Rape and sexual abuse leave devastating effects on a girl child, both physically and mentally. Physically, young girls are not developed enough to handle sexual intercourse, leading to severe injuries, infections, and even death in extreme cases. Many victims also face long-term reproductive health issues, including infertility, sexually transmitted infections (STIs), and complications in future pregnancies.

The psychological toll is equally profound. Victims often suffer from depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and other mental health conditions. The stigma associated with sexual violence further isolates them from their families and communities, leaving them vulnerable to further exploitation or abuse.

The educational consequences are also significant. Many victims drop out of school due to the trauma, fear of facing their abusers, or the stigma attached to rape. This creates a cycle of poverty and dependence, further reducing their life chances.

Access to justice for child rape victims is often fraught with challenges. In many countries, laws around sexual violence are outdated, under-enforced, or not well understood. Law enforcement agencies frequently lack the training or resources to handle cases of child sexual abuse appropriately, leading to further victimization during investigations.

In some cases, cultural practices such as “settling” rape cases between families, or forcing victims to marry their rapists, prevent victims from receiving the justice they deserve. This not only robs the victim of agency but perpetuates a culture of impunity where perpetrators feel empowered to commit further acts of violence.

Additionally, the social stigma surrounding rape prevents many girl children from coming forward. Fear of blame, retaliation, or being ostracized by their communities often keeps victims silent, allowing abusers to continue their crimes unchecked.

Internationally, the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC) and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) both call for an end to all forms of violence against children, including sexual abuse. Organizations such as UNICEF, Plan International, and Save the Children have been instrumental in raising awareness, supporting survivors, and lobbying for stronger laws and protections.

On a national level, many countries have taken steps to strengthen legal frameworks to protect children from sexual violence. Child protection laws, survivor-centered legal reforms, and harsher penalties for offenders have been introduced in several countries. However, effective implementation remains a challenge in many places due to corruption, weak legal systems, and deep-seated cultural barriers.

To truly address the epidemic of child rape, a multi-faceted approach is needed that tackles the root causes of the problem.

Education and Empowerment of girl-children can go a long way in preventing rape cases in the society. Educating girls about their rights, providing them with life skills, and empowering them to speak out against violence are crucial steps in preventing abuse. Equally important is educating boys and men about consent, respect, and gender equality to shift harmful patriarchal norms.

Girls and women need stronger legal protection to escape some the rape cases that occur regularly. Governments must prioritize the implementation of robust child protection laws, ensuring that law enforcement agents are well-trained and sensitized to handle cases of child rape. Special courts for handling cases involving children, victim support services, and protective measures should be readily available to survivors.

If we have to curb child rape menace, community engagement must be included in the process. Engaging communities to change attitudes toward girl-children and dismantling harmful gender norms is essential. Community leaders, religious figures, and educators can play a pivotal role in shifting mindsets and promoting zero tolerance for violence against children.

Furthermore, there is the need for support for survivours of rape. Comprehensive support systems for survivors are critical for the rest of their lives. These include access to psychological counselling, medical care, legal aid, and safe spaces where victims can heal and rebuild their lives. Schools should also provide supportive environments to help victims continue their education without fear of stigma or discrimination.

Global Advocacy and Accountability from World Health Organisation (WHO), UNICEF, and other relevant agencies should as a matter of fact continue to create more awareness and sensitization on the need to save the girl-child. International organizations and governments must continue to advocate for the protection of children’s rights, ensuring that perpetrators are held accountable. Monitoring mechanisms, transparency in legal proceedings, and collaboration between countries are key to fighting transnational issues like child trafficking for sexual exploitation.

It is worrisome to note in this 21st century, as the world is a global village, fully digitalized, when the girl-children should be allowed to showcase their potentials, instead they are trafficked to do jobs that will harm their lives.

Parents particularly, should have the number of children they can cater for. They should also pay attention to the ones they have.

Moreso, the boy-children and the men should be sensitized on the need to stop the menace.

Rape and sexual violence against girl-children is one of the gravest injustices of our time, robbing millions of their childhoods and futures. While progress has been made, there is still much work to be done to protect the most vulnerable among us. It is only through collective action, from governments, communities, families, and international organizations, that we can create a world where girl- children are safe, empowered, and free from violence.

Perpetual Oluchi Izuegbunam

Women

Who Is A Classic Woman?

Published

2 months ago

January 9, 2026

The Tide

A classic woman is one who has identified herself in terms of fashion, occupation or the kind of business she does.

A woman can be classical in the way she entertains her audience in terms of music and movies. You will discover that some female musicians are identified with the kind of music they sing.

A classical woman is one who always wants to appear trendy.

Generally, classical women are normally identified with the kind of things they are involved in.

There are ladies that want to be identified with wearing of shorts (short trousers) in the public. They use it to showcase their beauty. They want to be identified with such things as they see it as socialisation.

Some wear trousers that are so tight just to showcase all the curves they possess.

Consultant stylists and etiquette experts say some fashions won by some persons are inappropriate because of how and when they are won.

A classic woman is supposed to dress properly. She should be able to wear clothes that will not expose hidden parts of her body. When such occurs, then it is indecent dressing.

Ladies should be known for two things, classical and beauty. One can be classic with minimisation. The minimum woman should go is to look good, decent and presentable.

Some ladies like wearing short skirts but no matter how short the skirt is, it should look elegant. The skirt should not be too short like the mini-skirt.

Dressing or fashion depends on the environment the persons finds herself. The kind of clothes won to the office may be different from the one won at home. Likewise, a dress won to a party may be different from the one won too swimming pool.

For one to look classical or decent, body shape should be taken into consideration.

Colours of a particular fashion can make one look odd or nice. Looking model does not mean that one should go naked or dull.

Don’t wear clothes that you need to drag from time to time in order not to expose yourself.

Eunice Choko-Kayode

Women

Emohua Widows Receive Items From Ogbakor Ikwerre California

Published

2 months ago

January 8, 2026

The Tide

A Non-Governmental Organization, (NGO) Ogbakor Ikwerre,California, DBA, Ikwerre Community Association, California, through it’s outreach projects has donated food items to over 300 Widows in Rumuekpe and Rumuji in Emohua Local Government Area of Rivers State.

Speaking during the handover of the items to the women leaders of the communities in Emohua, yesterday, the team leader of the Ogbakor Ikwerre Community Association in California, Dr Christiana Chukumati, said that the donation is an annual event that has been on since 2014.

According to her, the NGO is donating the items among the four local government area of Ikwerre adding that this year is for widows in Rumuekpe and Rumuji communities.

“Today is Rumuekpe and Rumuji communities, next we are going to another Ikwerre local government area also.

” The NGO has been carrying on the activities since 2014 within the

Ikwerre communities”, Dr Chukumati said.

She thanked the Royal father of Rumuekpe, His Royal Highness, Golden Amb. Christian Amadi, Eze Chigu and the Royal Highness of Rumuji and Odegu Kingdom, Ohna Christian Okachineke Elechi Newe-Eli (the xv) for receiving them in their communities.

The team leader also promised the Royal Highness that whenever the NGO has any other items for the communities, she we do well to bring it to them.

Receiving the Ogbakor Ikwerre Community Association in California in Rumuekpe, His Royal Highness Golden Christian Amadi, praised the NGO for funding his clan among the communities.

According to the Highness, my community is the only oil producing community in Emohua Local Government Area of Rivers State, adding that his community is feeding the local government area, the state and the nation.

“I thank my children over there in California for remembering the widows in my Kingdom for the food items they brought.

” I pray to God to help them to do also to other Ikwerre communities.

” I want to tell them also that Rumuekpe Kingdom is till undeveloped.

” As you can see the community is nothing to show to the people, I want to beg the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) and the Rivers State government to come to our aid to develop our community. We are underdeveloped”

“God will bless my children over there in California”, His Royal Highness Amadi prayed.

In her words, the women leader of Rumuekpe community, Comfort Njoku, said that she was happy for the gift items given to them adding that it is not easy to remember the widows.

She explained that in Rumuekpe, the widows have not seen such a gift before and prayed that is only God that will reward them.

“I want to thank the Ogbakor Ikweree Community Association in California for giving us this items in this festival. We thank God for them and the leader of the group, Mrs Chukumati.

” What we received today we have not seen it in our community before for widows”, Mrs Njoku stated.

Meanwhile, in Rumuji community, His Royal Highness, Ohna Christian Okachineke Elechi, said that he lacked words to thank the Ogbakor Ikwerre Community Association in California for the gift to the widows in his communities.

According to him, today is historic in the history of Rumuji community that our children in oversea can remember us, I am very excited and happy over the items.

“I feel very very happy, it is good that our children recognize the widows in my community today.

” I did not know them before but now I know them, I pray to God Almighty to pay them back for their effort and that they will not lack.

“I pray God to continue to bless them in whatever things they are doing” he stated.

Earlier, the oldest woman in Rumuji community, Nletem Josiah, who spoke in her local language interpreted by the woman leader, Agor Leah Onugbom, thanked the Ogbakor Ikwerre Community Association in California for the gift adding that her husband died many years ago that has caused her hardship.

” In my age and these people come and give me these food items, is only God that will bless them for me.

” This Xmas I will eat and be happy so I want to thank them and that my God, God will bless them for me”, Mama Josiah said.

By: Kiadum Edookor