In a landmark declaration to advance gender justice and human rights, His Royal Highness Edidem Sylvanus Effiong Okon, Paramount Ruler of Uyo Kingdom, has formally abolished all forms of gender-based violence (GBV) and harmful traditional practices within the Uyo community.
The announcement, made on 8 May 2025, follows extensive consultations with community elders, youth leaders, religious figures, women’s groups, and other stakeholders. The initiative was undertaken in partnership with the Women At Risk International Foundation (WARIF) and UN Women, with support from the Ford Foundation, marking a unified stand against longstanding practices that jeopardise the rights and well-being of women and girls.
Effective immediately, the declaration abolishes:
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Domestic violence and wife battery;
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Female Genital Mutilation (FGM);
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Denial of inheritance rights to widows and economic disempowerment;
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Sexual violence, abuse, and exploitation.
His Royal Highness underscored that any individual found promoting, practicing, or defending these prohibited acts will face both traditional sanctions and legal consequences, as such behaviour contravenes the values of justice, equity, and community conscience.
“This decision reflects our unwavering commitment to uphold human dignity, ensure gender justice, and foster a society grounded in peace, respect, and shared humanity,” Edidem Okon stated.
Speaking on behalf of the UN Women Country Representative, Ms Beatrice Eyong, National Programmes Officer Ms Patience Ekeoba lauded the paramount ruler and Uyo Traditional Council for their leadership. She urged traditional and religious actors to challenge customs that enable violence against women and girls.
According to UN Women, Uyo Kingdom will work closely with the Akwa Ibom State Government, WARIF, and other stakeholders to implement community guidelines, launch education and awareness campaigns, support survivors, and establish accountability frameworks to enforce the declaration.
The historic move positions Uyo Kingdom as a regional leader in protecting and empowering women and girls, setting a precedent for other communities in Nigeria and beyond.
