The Cross River State delegation to the 79th United Nations General Assembly participated in a side event on Tuesday, where they joined forces with the Nigerian Governors' Spouses Forum to visit the New York Family Justice Center in Manhattan to explore cooperation and knowledge sharing.
Reverend Eyoanwan Otu, wife of Cross River State Governor, led the state team to the Sexual Assault Response Centre (SARC) alongside other Nigerian governors' spouses. The visit aimed to collaborate with onsite partners, understudy their response and prosecution systems, and replicate these efforts in various states across Nigeria.
The mission is to eradicate domestic violence, provide free and confidential support for Gender-Based Violence (GBV) survivors, and offer counselling and mental health services for their emotional well-being. Additionally, the initiative enables victims to meet with trained law enforcement and legal consultants for protection orders and custody arrangements, while also monitoring human rights violations.
Cross River State's First Lady, accompanied by Dr. Inyang Asibong, aims to replicate the New York City Family Justice and Sexual Assault Systems in the state. This initiative seeks to provide support for child abuse victims, address sexual assault and rape cases, and reinforce the Violence Against Persons Prohibition (VAPP) Law implemented by the State government.
During the tour, Mrs. Otu spoke about the establishment of a comprehensive Complaints and Justice Centre, equipped with:
- ASAP Dial Call Centre for immediate support
- Providing emotional support and guidance
- Medical Emergency Response support Center
- Child advocacy centre safeguarding children from harmful parents
This initiative also includes follow-up on perpetrators for prosecution, made possible through collaborative efforts with partners.
Mrs. Otu explained that the Cross River State government prioritizes child neglect and abuse, as well as juvenile delinquency, to advance the interests of children, women, and youth in line with the 2023 Child Protection Rights Law. The initiative aims to safeguard vulnerable populations from harm and ensure their well-being.