Otti signs law establishing rehabilitation centre for survivors of rape, trafficking

Governor Alex Otti of Abia State has signed into law a bill establishing a centre for the rehabilitation of survivors of rape, defilement, domestic violence and human trafficking, in a move aimed at strengthening support systems for victims of gender-based violence.

The legislation, titled Abia State Centre for the Rehabilitation of Survivors of Rape, Defilement, Domestic Violence and Human Trafficking Law, provides a legal framework for the protection, treatment and reintegration of victims across the state.

Speaking during the signing ceremony at the Government House, Otti commended the Abia State House of Assembly for what he described as the swift passage of the bill, as well as the contributions of key stakeholders who worked to ensure its realisation.

He particularly acknowledged the role of his wife, Mrs Priscilla Chidinma Otti, alongside commissioners in charge of women affairs and social protection, for championing the initiative.

“I want to thank the House of Assembly for giving this bill an expedited hearing and for passing it in record time. I also salute Her Excellency and members of the team for putting this together,” the governor said.

Otti, however, stressed that while the establishment of rehabilitation centres is necessary, long-term solutions lie in societal reorientation and prevention of such crimes.

According to him, the goal should be to reach a point where such facilities are no longer needed.

“We will set up more centres, but I believe we will get to a stage where we begin to close them because there will be no need for them. The real issue is about reorientation,” he said.

The governor also noted that crimes such as rape, child abuse and human trafficking were historically alien to the values of the Igbo society, adding that offenders were traditionally ostracised.

He called for a return to strong communal values that discourage such acts and promote accountability.

Earlier, Speaker of the Abia State House of Assembly, Emmanuel Emeruwa, said the bill underwent due legislative processes before being presented for assent.

He explained that the law is designed to provide structured support for victims of sexual and gender-based violence, which informed its speedy passage by lawmakers.

“This bill deals with the rehabilitation of victims of rape and other forms of violence. That is why it received prompt legislative attention,” he said.

Also speaking, the governor’s wife, Priscilla Chidinma Otti, who initiated the bill, described its passage as a major step forward in protecting women and girls in the state.

She said the new law offers hope to victims by guaranteeing access to support services and improving the chances of justice.

“This law gives hope to our women and girls – hope that they will not only receive support but also be rehabilitated and reintegrated into society,” she said.

She commended the governor for his consistent backing of efforts to combat gender-based violence and other crimes against vulnerable groups.

Stakeholders say the new law is expected to strengthen Abia State’s response to sexual and domestic violence, while providing a more structured system for victim care and recovery.