Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria – In a disturbing incident that has sparked widespread outrage, the Afrihealth Optonet Association (AHOA) Nigeria vehemently condemns the reprehensible actions of Barrister Ekere Ebong, a Nigerian lawyer, who brutally assaulted and expelled his wife, Pharmacist (Mrs.) Kufre Ebong, from their home in the middle of the night.
A viral video circulating on social media captured the horrifying altercation, revealing a visibly distressed Mrs. Kufre Ebong being subjected to physical and emotional abuse. Stripped half-naked and left on the floor, the victim displayed visible signs of trauma, with blood dripping from her mouth.
In a press release issued and signed by Dr. Uzodinma Adirieje, CEO of Afrihealth Optonet Association, on December 18, 2023, AHOA called for the immediate arrest and prosecution of Barrister Ekere Ebong. The statement expressed deep concern for Mrs. Kufre Ebong’s well-being and demanded justice for the victim.
The press release reads, “Afrihealth Optonet Association (AHOA) condemns, in its totality, the wicked and dehumanizing actions that were inflicted on the body and psyche of pharmacist (Mrs.) Kufre Ebong. This incident, occurring just days after the conclusion of AHOA’s ’16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence,’ underscores the urgent need for intervention.”
AHOA applauded the swift response of the neighbors who courageously intervened, bringing the incident to public attention. The organization also commended the efforts of the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ) and the Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria (PSN) for their statements on the matter.
The press release further urged the Nigerian government, under the leadership of His Excellency President Bola Tinubu, GCFR, to support AHOA’s call, in collaboration with Every Woman Coalition, for an Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Elimination of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW). This protocol would specifically address Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG) in Nigeria and globally.
AHOA acknowledged the government of Akwa Ibom State for its efforts in combating gender-based violence and called for a thorough investigation, immediate arrest, and diligent prosecution of the perpetrator(s). The organization rejected any plea bargain, emphasizing the importance of enforcing the full weight of the law to serve as a deterrent against future abuses.
The Moment for Women has learned that Mrs. Kufre Ebong, a pharmacist, endured this abusive situation for over four years. A concerned neighbor, speaking during the incident, revealed, “Barrister Ebong has been battering his wife for the past four years, and no one says anything. Because no one has been speaking up, I’ve lived in this compound for more than four years, and he has been beating his wife.”
In a recent update, The Moment for Women has gathered that the case has been formally reported to the police. We are pleased to share that FIDA Akwa Ibom has taken up representation on behalf of the victim.
As an organization committed to advocating for women’s rights and safety, The Moment for Women remains steadfast in its commitment to monitor and report on the progress of this case. We aim to ensure transparency, accountability, and a swift resolution that upholds the rights and dignity of Pharmacist Kufre Ebong.
