A state delegation led by the Commissioner for Children, Gender Affairs, and Social Development, Hon. Mrs. Ngozi Enih, visited Mrs. Felicia on May 24, 2024. The delegation held meetings with key stakeholders, including the Traditional Ruler of Umuagama Community, His Royal Highness, Igwe Silvester Oshaba Onuh, the local police division, the Neighbourhood Watch, and the youth of the community.
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| Hon Mrs Ngozi Enih with HRH Igwe Silvester Oshaba, the DPO Enugu Ezike, the Victim, Mrs Felicia and Others |
In a public statement, Hon. Mrs. Enih condemned the actions taken against Mrs. Felicia, highlighting the lack of proper investigation before the community acted. She reaffirmed the commitment of Governor Peter Mbah's administration to ensuring the safety and welfare of all citizens in Enugu State. Mrs. Enih issued a stern warning that any individual found guilty of inhuman treatment would face the full extent of the law. She assured that a thorough investigation would commence immediately to bring the perpetrators to justice.
To help Mrs. Felicia cope with the trauma and the mourning period, the commissioner donated palliatives on behalf of the state government. These included foodstuffs, provisions, and toiletries for Mrs. Felicia and her children. Mrs. Enih pledged continued support from the state government to ensure their well-being.
His Royal Highness, Igwe Silvester Oshaba Onuh, also condemned the incident, noting that he was not present when the event occurred. He promised to collaborate closely with the state government and law enforcement agencies to ensure that the perpetrators are brought to book and to prevent such incidents from recurring in his community.
In addition to addressing the specific incident involving Mrs. Felicia, the Enugu State Government issued a broader warning to all communities within the state to abolish and shun harmful traditional practices. Hon. Mrs. Ngozi Enih emphasized that such practices, which often result in the violation of human rights and the dignity of individuals, will no longer be tolerated.
The government stressed its commitment to fostering a society that upholds justice, equality, and respect for all citizens. Governor Peter Mbah’s administration underscored that any community or individual found engaging in such harmful customs would face severe legal consequences, as part of a comprehensive effort to protect the welfare and rights of all residents in Enugu State.
A viral video has circulated on the internet showing the brutal treatment of Mrs. Felicia. In the video, she was repeatedly whipped by community members and forced to lie on her husband’s grave to take an oath and cry to prove her innocence. Her children were reportedly locked up during the ordeal.
Governor Peter Mbah, through the Ministry of Children, Gender Affairs and Social Development, provided much-needed relief to Mrs. Felicia and reassured the public that justice will be served. This swift action by the state government has been widely praised and has brought some solace to Mrs. Felicia and the community, who are eager to see justice delivered.
