The Abia State Government has vowed to prosecute persons accused of defiling and sexually assaulting minors, following the recording of seven recent gender-based violence and sexual and gender-based violence cases in the state.

Commissioner for Information, Okey Kanu, disclosed this on Monday while briefing journalists at Government House, Umuahia, on the outcome of the State Executive Council meeting presided over by Governor Alex Otti.

Kanu said the seven cases comprised six incidents of sexual violence and one case of domestic violence. The cases involved five minors aged between 10 and 14 years and two adult women aged between 25 and 40 years.

According to the commissioner, the reported incidents included alleged defilement, rape and the physical assault of a pregnant woman.

He disclosed that the Nchedo Sexual Assault Referral Centre provided medical and other support services to survivors, including surgery for a 10-year-old survivor who suffered severe vaginal bleeding following the alleged abuse.

Kanu said the cases had been documented for appropriate protection, investigation, referral and legal processes.

“This administration is committed to ensuring that perpetrators of gender-based violence are brought to justice, no matter what it takes,” he said.

The commissioner also said the government would ensure that the suspect in the recent assault of a pregnant woman would face the law.

He further disclosed that Abia State would host the 2026 World Igbo Day on September 29, with activities including a keynote lecture, wreath-laying, an interdenominational service, march-past and traditional performances.