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Walk-For-Life: Opobo/Nkoro Women Drum Support For Fubara

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3 years ago

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The beautiful women of Opobo/Nkoro Local Government Area, last Saturday, took a unity walk tagged, “A SIMple walk for life” in celebration of God’s faithfulness for the peaceful coexistence of the people, while thanking God for the emergence of their son, brother and father, Sir Siminialayi Fubara as the Rivers State’s Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) standard bearer for the 2023 general election.
The unity walk, a SIM-ple exercise to SIM-plify the fitness status of Opobo/Nkoro women and girls, led by Mrs Sotonye Toby Fulton, had in attendance wife of Amanyanabo of Opobo Kingdom, Queen Prudence Dandeson Douglas Jaja; women and girls from the 11 political wards of Opobo/Nkoro.
Speaking at the event, Mrs Sotonye Toby Fulton, described the exercise as “a walk for good health, walk for life, and walk in appreciation of the emergence of the Rivers State PDP standard bearer for the 2023 general election, Sir Siminialayi Fubara.
While addressing the cheering crowd, Dame Victoria Sergeant Awuse, appreciated the Amanyanabo’s wife, Fulton, former member, House of Representatives, Hon Blessing Nsiegbe, for initiating the programme.
She further hinted that the exercise would move to all LGAs of the state, and thanked the state Governor, Chief Nyesom Wike, for adequately carrying women along in his administration.
Mrs Awuse said that every fitness exercise promotes healthy growth, good health as well as builds a happy family.
She prayed for the victory of Fubara and all PDP candidates in the 2023 elections, and charged the women to “Unite for SIM, get your PVC and vote Sir Siminialayi Fubara.”
Also speaking, the former PHALGA Federal Constituency 2 House of Representatives member, Hon Blessing Nsiegbe, expressed gratitude to the people of Opobo/Nkoro for recognising her contributions to the development of the state.
In her remarks, Queen Prudence Dandeson Douglas Jaja, advised the women not to end the exercise at Opobo with one-day outing, but to continue with the exercise going forward and vote rightly.
She advised Opobo women to vote for Sir Siminialayi Fubara and all PDP candidates.
The king’s wife thanked the organisers and the beautiful women and girls of Opobo/Nkoro for colourful event, and wished that the activity could be a quarterly exercise.
“Opobo/Nkoro women, vote and protect your vote,” she added.
The Leader of Opobo Welfare Women Association, Amaopuorubo Felicia Pepple, assured that Opobo women were mountain movers and would vote massively and defend their votes for Sir Siminialayi Fubara and all PDP candidates come 2023.
Vice Chairman of Ikwerre Local Government Area, Hon Ifeoma Rejoice Nyenwe, while speaking with the press, expressed joy at the impactful event, and appreciated the organisers of the event with special thanks to Governor Nyesom Wike, Sir Siminialayi Fubara and Mrs Sotonye Toby Fulton for the opportunity of gathering women for the special fitness exercise.
At the thanksgiving service conducted by Pastor Martins Achi, praised God for the opportunity to worship Him.
The service was filled with prayers for victory of Sir Siminialayi Fubara and all PDP candidates.
The thanksgiving praises had the 11 wards dancing and praising God in a procession manner as Peter Stonecold led the praises.
Speaking with the press after the thanksgiving service, Opobo/Nkoro Council Boss, Hon Enyiada Cookey-Gam, noted that thanksgiving was the only sure way to ask God for more.
He said, “Opobo/Nkoro women have gathered today in thanksgiving to the Most High God for life, peace and everything we are enjoying as a peaceful people. I’m happy and thanking our Golden Governor, Chief Nyesom Wike, who has given us a wonderful platform to perform, and the emergence of an Opobo/Nkoro son as the standard bearer of our great party, Sir Siminialayi Fubara. Opobo/Nkoro people will forever remain thankful”.
Cookey-Gam; Opobo/Nkoro LGA Peoples Democratic Party Chairman, Hon Godwin Manfred Pepple; the Vice Chairman of Ikwerre Local Government Area, Hon Ifeoma Rejoice Nyenwe; Dame Victoria Sergeant Awuse; former CTC Mayor of Port Harcourt City LGA, Hon Orukwem Amadi Oparaeli; were among dignitaries that graced the exercise.
The highlight of the walk was a 20-minute aerobics class conducted by Coach Oge Arima.

By: Nelson Chukwudi

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How to Tackle Child Rape

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1 month ago

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February 27, 2026

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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
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Who Is A Classic Woman? 

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3 months ago

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January 9, 2026

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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
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Emohua Widows Receive Items From Ogbakor Ikwerre California

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3 months ago

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January 8, 2026

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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
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