“You Have Been My Pillar of Support”: Ritual Attack Survivor Amarachi Okpokiri Praises First Lady Priscilla Otti’s Compassion

In a heartwarming display of compassion, Abia State First Lady, Mrs. Priscilla Otti, reassured ritual attack survivor Miss Amarachi Okpokiri of continued support and justice. Visiting Emede Ancient Kingdom, Mrs. Otti promised economic assistance and pledged that the attackers would face the full extent of the law, reaffirming Abia State’s commitment to eradicating gender-based violence.

The heart-wrenching story of Miss Amarachi Okpokiri, a survivor of a brutal attack, continues to capture the attention of Abia State as the First Lady, Mrs. Priscilla Chidinma Otti, has once again visited the young woman, offering unwavering support during her recovery. Amarachi, who survived a horrific assault allegedly perpetrated by her husband, narrowly escaped death in what authorities have described as a ritual-motivated attack. The violent ordeal, which left her with severe machete wounds, has sparked outrage across the state.

Mrs. Otti’s recent visit took place at the palace of the Traditional Ruler of Emede Ancient Kingdom, HRM Eze Allen Okpokiri, Amarachi’s uncle. During her visit, the First Lady expressed profound gratitude to God for preserving Amarachi Okpokiri’s life and eyesight, emphasizing that this was her second visit to check on the survivor’s progress. “You have been my pillar of support,” Amarachi tearfully remarked, thanking Mrs. Otti for her continued care.

The First Lady reassured the family that the Abia State Government is committed to helping Amarachi rebuild her life. Mrs. Otti pledged financial assistance, offering support for Amarachi to start a business and regain her independence. The First Lady’s intervention goes beyond financial aid, extending to psychological and legal support to help Amarachi heal from her trauma.

Mrs. Otti did not stop at offering personal support to Amarachi Okpokiri. She used the platform to send a strong message about Abia State’s zero-tolerance stance on gender-based violence. She confirmed that those responsible for the attack would face the full wrath of the law, ensuring that justice is served swiftly. “Under this administration, no such crime will go unpunished. We are determined to make Abia State a hostile environment for anyone who engages in gender-based violence,” she declared.

The First Lady also revealed that the government is reinforcing the committee responsible for protecting vulnerable groups, focusing on swift justice for perpetrators. Public awareness campaigns will be intensified, and law enforcement officers will undergo specialized training to handle cases of abuse with sensitivity and urgency.

Addressing HRM Eze Allen Okpokiri, Mrs. Otti urged traditional rulers to use their influence to eradicate such incidents from their communities. She called on community leaders, local authorities, and civil society groups to work together in preventing abuse, stressing that grassroots engagement is critical to winning the fight against gender-based violence.

In a tearful but heartfelt response, Amarachi Okpokiri praised Mrs. Otti for being her “pillar of support,” recalling how the First Lady ensured her medical bills were paid and frequently visited her during her recovery. “May God continue to bless and guide you,” Amarachi said.

Several prominent figures, including the Honourable Commissioner for Poverty Alleviation and Social Protection, Mrs. Ngozi Felix, and other senior government officials, lauded the First Lady for her efforts in supporting victims of violence. They commended her commitment to empowering survivors and holding perpetrators accountable.

HRM Eze Allen Okpokiri expressed gratitude on behalf of the Emede Ancient Kingdom, acknowledging Mrs. Otti’s visit as a testament to the compassionate leadership in Abia State. “Your actions today demonstrate that the right government is in power,” he remarked, applauding the First Lady’s dedication to justice and compassion.

As Abia State ramps up efforts to combat gender-based violence, the government’s actions, spearheaded by the First Lady, are giving survivors like Amarachi hope for a better future. Through increased public awareness, community engagement, and legal reforms, the state is setting the foundation for a safer and more just society.