Mrs. Otti Calls for Concerted Effort against Elder Abuse

The Wife of Abia State Governor, Mrs. Priscilla Otti, has called for a concerted effort in tackling elder abuse and ensuring that senior citizens across the state live in dignity and with the care they deserve.

Mrs. Otti made the appeal at the Banquet Hall, Government House Umuahia, during the 2025 World Elder Abuse Awareness Day event, with the theme: “Addressing Abuse of Older Adults in Abia State Through Data and Action.”

The event was organised by the Office of the Wife of the Governor in collaboration with the State Ministry of Poverty Alleviation and Social Protection.

She emphasized that elders are the backbone of society – having raised generations, built communities, and passed down enduring values.

She described elder abuse as a pervasive societal ill that manifests in various forms such as physical, emotional, financial abuse, and neglect.

“Our elders loved us unconditionally, raised us with wisdom, and shared their visions with us. We owe them not only our gratitude but a strong system of care and protection,” she stated.

The Abia First Lady commended Governor Alex Otti for his unwavering commitment to the welfare of senior citizens, particularly in ensuring prompt payment of pensions and expanding access to quality healthcare services for the elderly.

She praised the Governor for signing the Abia State Senior Citizens Law 2025 and the Elderly Persons Welfare Law into law, which legally mandate the protection and care of the aged in Abia State.

Mrs. Otti also urged elderly citizens to take advantage of government-provided healthcare facilities by going for regular medical checkups.

Earlier, the Commissioner for Poverty Alleviation and Social Protection, Mrs. Blessing Felix, commended Mrs. Otti’s sustained commitment to protecting the rights and dignity of senior citizens.

She affirmed her ministry’s resolve to partner with the Office of the Wife of the Governor and other stakeholders to combat elder abuse in the state.

Also speaking, the Chairman of the National Senior Citizens Centre in Abia State, Mazi Nwaka Otti, lauded Governor Alex Otti for signing into law the Senior Citizens Welfare Bill and for making the wellbeing of elders a policy priority.

In a vote of thanks, the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Mrs. Magdalene Ugoanusi, expressed appreciation to the Governor for institutionalizing elderly care in the state and prayed for God’s continued blessings on the administration.

The event featured free medical checkups for senior citizens, distribution of care packages, and had in attendance the Deputy Governor, Mrs. Adaeze Emetu, as well as top government officials and community stakeholders.