The Gender Perspective and Social Development Center (GPSDC) has condemned the reported killing of 23 year old Mmesoma Umeorini in Uga, Aguata Local Government Area of Anambra State, allegedly by her former boyfriend following the breakdown of their relationship.
The Executive Director of GPSDC, Mrs Eucharia Anaekwe, described the incident as deeply disturbing, raising concerns about violence against women, possessiveness in intimate relationships and the misconception that women are under the control of their current or former partners.
Anaekwe stressed that every woman has the fundamental right to choose her partner and end a relationship without facing threats, intimidation or violence.
“A woman has the fundamental right to choose whom she loves, whom she dates, and whom she wishes to leave. No man has the right to punish, threaten, intimidate, or take the life of a woman because she decides to end a relationship,” she said.
She noted that cases of violence against women often reflect harmful social attitudes that encourage male dominance and portray women’s independence as a challenge to male authority.
According to her, the belief that a woman is a man’s property must be challenged in homes, schools, religious institutions, communities and other social spaces.
The GPSDC executive director called on the Anambra State Police Command and other relevant authorities to conduct a thorough, impartial and professional investigation into the incident to ensure that justice is served.
She maintained that efforts to address violence against women must go beyond public condemnation and include accountability for perpetrators, early intervention and stronger protection mechanisms for those facing threats or abuse.
Anaekwe also urged parents, community leaders, religious institutions, educators and civil society organisations to intensify public education on healthy relationships, emotional regulation, respect for personal boundaries and peaceful conflict resolution.
She warned that threats, stalking, coercive control and refusal to accept a partner’s decision to end a relationship should not be dismissed as signs of love or ordinary relationship disagreements.
The organisation further called on government agencies to strengthen accessible reporting channels and protection systems for women and girls experiencing intimate partner violence.
Addressing young women and girls, Anaekwe encouraged those facing threats or intimidation in relationships to take warning signs seriously, confide in trusted people and seek appropriate assistance.
She also urged young men to embrace positive masculinity, emphasising self-control, respect and the ability to accept rejection without resorting to violence.
“A woman choosing to leave you does not diminish your worth as a man,” she said.
GPSDC maintained that preventing violence against women requires sustained community awareness, responsive institutions and a collective commitment to protecting the lives, dignity and rights of women and girls.
Written by Enitan Mudashiru
