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From Jude Chinedu, Enugu
Custos Care Foundation (CCF), a pet project of the Wife of the Enugu State Governor, Nkechinyere Mbah, has raised concern over the alarming increase in domestic violence cases, particularly against women and girls in the state.
The organisation revealed that no fewer than 20 incidents were reported in January alone.
This was contained in a statement signed by the Managing Director of the foundation, Comrade Egodi Igwe.
She said: “Our mediation team intervened in 12 cases, leading to peaceful resolutions. Additionally, three Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) were signed between spouses, helping to restore peace in fragile marriages and reunite families.”
The foundation identified family neglect and economic hardship as key drivers of domestic violence. To support victims, it provided immediate relief through its food bank and offered skill acquisition programmes to help them achieve financial independence.
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It also highlighted collaborations with relevant government agencies, including the Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Development, the Nigerian Police, and other NGOs, which facilitated impactful interventions through referrals.
Citing a heartbreaking case in Aninri Local Government Area, the foundation said it was assisting a woman facing divorce proceedings after being abandoned by her husband, whom she had sponsored to travel abroad. Instead of reuniting with her, he married another woman, leaving her stranded and heartbroken.
Another deeply disturbing case involved Mrs. Echeji, whose husband, Sunday Echeji, brutally attacked her, severing one hand and severely injuring the other in an attempt to kill her. She managed to shield her head with her hands, saving her life. The horrific attack occurred in Ugwuogede village, Ibagwa-Agu Nsukka, Nsukka LGA.
“On Monday, January 27, we visited her at the hospital, where she is receiving medical care, and assured her of our full support,” Igwe stated.
She further disclosed that on Friday, January 31, the foundation stood in solidarity with the victim at the Enugu East Magistrate Court, where the perpetrator was formally charged with attempted murder. However, the court declined jurisdiction and referred the case to the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), leading to Echeji’s remand in a correctional facility.
“Through our legal representative, Barrister Egonu, CCF will continue to monitor the case closely. We remain steadfast in our commitment to protecting vulnerable individuals, advancing their rights, and providing much-needed support to those in distress,” Igwe added.
