Edo first lady's office condemns assault on journalist at government house event

Benin, Edo – In a strongly worded press release issued Thursday, Mrs. Edesili Okpebholo Anani, Coordinator of the Office of the First Lady of Edo State, has vehemently denounced the alleged assault on Mrs. Juliet Enabulele Asein, a journalist with the Edo Broadcasting Service (EBS).

The incident, reportedly carried out by Mr. Kelly Okungbowa during an official event at Government House, has sparked widespread outrage and renewed calls for robust action against gender-based violence.

Describing the attack as a "brutal violation of her dignity, her rights, and her safety as a woman and as a journalist," Mrs. Anani emphasized that such conduct is "utterly unacceptable, intolerable, and must have no place in Edo State."

The statement comes amid the ongoing global 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, underscoring the timeliness and gravity of the matter.

Governor Monday Okpebholo's administration, through Mrs. Anani, reaffirmed its zero-tolerance policy on gender-based violence, citing the Violence Against Persons Prohibition (VAPP) Law as a cornerstone of enforcement.

"Anyone who violates it will face full prosecution without fear or favour," the release stated, signaling that no one, regardless of status, will escape accountability.

The press release highlighted the incident as a "stark reminder" of the pressing need to escalate efforts to protect women, particularly in public and professional spaces.

"Edo State will not stand by while women are assaulted, intimidated, or silenced in any form," it declared.

In a proactive move, Mrs. Anani announced that her office has initiated immediate contact with the victim to provide emotional support, comfort, and any necessary assistance for her recovery and wellbeing.

This gesture aligns with broader commitments to safeguard women and journalists, whom she affirmed "deserve safety" and "protection."

The assault has drawn sharp condemnation from various quarters, including media advocacy groups and women's rights organizations, who have rallied behind Mrs. Asein.

As investigations proceed, the event has intensified public discourse on the pervasive challenges of gender-based violence in Nigeria, with many viewing it as a test of the state's resolve under the current leadership.

Edo State officials have yet to release further details on the specifics of the altercation or the status of Mr. Okungbowa, but the First Lady's swift response is seen as a pivotal step toward justice and deterrence.