Edo State Launches Uromi Sexual Assault Referral Centre (SARC) to Strengthen the Fight Against Gender‑Based Violence

By Adesuwa Ehimuan

In a decisive move to strengthen the fight against gender-based violence (GBV), the Edo State Government on Wednesday, 19 November 2025, commissioned the Uromi Sexual Assault Referral Centre (Uromi SARC) in Uromi, Esan North-East Local Government Area.

The facility, the second of its kind in the state, operates as a one-stop hub where survivors can access free medical care, counselling, psychosocial support and legal guidance without stigma or delay.

During the opening session, the Coordinator, Office of the First Lady, Mrs Edesili Okpebholo Anani described the centre as “a beacon of hope for survivors, a testament to our collective resolve, and a concrete expression of the state’s commitment to protect the most vulnerable in our society.” She noted that the Uromi SARC reflects the vision of Governor Monday Okpebholo in strengthening systems that safeguard women, children and vulnerable groups.

She further stressed that GBV “shatters lives, fractures families, and undermines the progress of our society,” adding that the centre provides safe shelter, legal aid, psychosocial counselling and economic-empowerment programmes under one roof. She called for compassion, coordination and sustained action to eliminate GBV across communities.

The Chairman of Esan North-East Local Government, Matthew Ojieabulu, acknowledged the joint effort between the state government and international partner in bringing the centre to reality.

The Commissioner for Women Affairs, Mrs Eugenia Abdallah, represented by Permanent Secretary Mrs Irene Ihensekhien, reaffirmed that the Edo state government remains strongly committed to providing survivor-centred services that are timely, accessible and coordinated.

The Head of Sub-Office, IOM – UN Migration, Lagos, Nigeria , Ali Ibrahim Ali noted that the centre was established under a joint initiative of the United Nations and the Swiss Government, as part of the project “Strengthening Protection and Prosecutorial Response to Combat Trafficking in Persons in Nigeria.” He also noted that the launch aligned with the global 16 Days of Activism for 2025, themed “United to End Digital Violence Against All Women and Girls.”

Commissioner of Police, Monday Agbonika assured that law-enforcement agencies are refining their strategies to ensure swift action. “We will secure speedy dispensation of justice and ensure that victims receive the advocacy, care and protection they require”.

The Uromi SARC is now positioned as a core pillar in Edo State’s wider agenda to prevent GBV and support survivors. With its integrated services and coordinated approach, the centre strengthens the state’s commitment to building safer, more inclusive and more equitable communities.