GADA Calls For Accountability Over Domestic Violence Claim Against Ovat Agbor

CROSS RIVER, CALABAR – The Gender and Development Action (GADA) has condemned allegations of domestic violence involving Hon. Ovat Agbor, a member representing the Obubra State Constituency in the Cross River State House of Assembly.

The organization expressed deep concern over reports linking the lawmaker to alleged domestic abuse involving his wife.

In a press statement issued on March 12, 2026, GADA described the allegations as disturbing and called for a thorough and transparent investigation.

The civil society organization emphasized that domestic violence remains a serious violation of human rights and must never be ignored.

According to the statement, allegations involving public officials require careful scrutiny because such individuals hold positions of trust and leadership.

The organization stated that acts of domestic violence, regardless of the individuals involved, should never be trivialized.

“Violence against women is a grave violation of human rights and a criminal offence under Nigerian law,” the organization said in the statement.

Police Clarify Lawmaker Was Invited, Not Arrested

GADA also acknowledged clarification from the Cross River State Police Command regarding the status of Hon. Agbor during the investigation.

The organization noted that the police had confirmed the lawmaker was invited for questioning rather than arrested.

However, the group stressed that the seriousness of the allegations requires a thorough and impartial investigation.

According to GADA, the clarification from police does not diminish the importance of addressing the issues raised by the incident.

The group said it remains important that law enforcement authorities conduct a transparent investigation into the matter.

The statement read, “While the Cross River State Police Command clarified that Hon. Ovat Agbor was invited for questioning and later released, the matter still deserves thorough investigation.”

GADA emphasized that allegations of domestic violence should not be dismissed due to the social or political status of those involved.

Public Officials Must Uphold the Law

The advocacy group further stated that allegations involving elected officials raise concerns about accountability and responsible leadership.

According to GADA, individuals entrusted with public office must demonstrate respect for the law and uphold the dignity of citizens.

The organization warned that society cannot afford to overlook allegations of abuse involving people in positions of authority.

GADA stressed that public confidence in leadership depends on accountability and adherence to the rule of law.

The group stated that elected representatives should serve as role models in protecting the rights and dignity of citizens.

“When individuals entrusted with public office are implicated in such allegations, it raises serious concerns about leadership and accountability,” the organization said.

The organization added that public officials should always demonstrate commitment to justice and respect for human rights.

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Domestic Violence Should Not Be Treated as a Private Matter

GADA also warned against treating domestic violence as a private issue between couples.

The organization explained that such attitudes often silence victims and prevent justice from being served.

According to the group, survivors frequently face pressure to reconcile with perpetrators rather than seek legal protection.

The organization noted that such pressures reinforce a culture where abuse becomes normalized within communities.

GADA stated that society must reject any practice that encourages silence or shields perpetrators from consequences.

The statement said, “Domestic violence is not a private matter. Too often survivors are pressured into silence at the expense of justice and accountability.”

The group stressed that silence only emboldens perpetrators and discourages victims from reporting abuse.

Call for Thorough Investigation

The organization therefore called on the Cross River State Police Command to conduct a comprehensive investigation into the allegations.

GADA urged the authorities to ensure that the investigation is impartial, transparent and guided strictly by due process.

According to the group, justice must be pursued regardless of the status or political influence of the individuals involved.

The organization emphasized that the outcome of the investigation must reflect commitment to fairness and protection of victims.

GADA also stressed that ensuring justice in such cases strengthens public confidence in the legal system.

The statement added, “Due process must be followed, and any findings must reflect commitment to justice and protection of survivors.”

Appeal to Cross River Assembly and Civil Society

GADA also urged the leadership of the Cross River State House of Assembly to take the matter seriously.

The organization called on lawmakers to demonstrate commitment to addressing gender-based violence within society.

According to the group, legislative institutions have a responsibility to promote laws that protect vulnerable citizens.

The organization also appealed to civil society groups, community leaders and the general public to take a strong stand against violence against women.

GADA stressed that collective action is necessary to prevent abuse and support survivors seeking justice.

The organization noted that strong social condemnation of domestic violence can help discourage such behaviour in society.

The group stated that communities must actively support systems that protect victims and hold perpetrators accountable.

Violence Against Women Threatens National Development

The advocacy group also warned that violence against women undermines national development and democratic progress.

According to GADA, societies cannot achieve meaningful progress while gender-based violence continues to be tolerated.

The organization noted that women’s safety and dignity remain essential components of a just and equitable society.

GADA emphasized that protecting women from abuse contributes to social stability and sustainable development.

The group stressed that Nigeria’s democratic values require respect for the rights and dignity of all citizens.

The statement said, “Nigeria cannot make meaningful progress in governance, democracy and development while violence against women continues to be tolerated.”

Commitment to Protecting Women and Girls

GADA reaffirmed its commitment to advocating for accountability and justice in cases involving gender-based violence.

The organization stated that it will continue supporting initiatives that protect women and girls across Nigeria.

According to the group, promoting justice and safeguarding human rights remain central to its mission.

GADA emphasized that protecting survivors and holding perpetrators accountable remain critical steps toward ending domestic violence.

The organization also pledged to continue raising public awareness on issues affecting women and girls.

The group concluded that sustained advocacy and institutional accountability are necessary to create a safer society for women.

“GADA remains committed to advocating for justice, accountability and the protection of the rights and dignity of women and girls across Nigeria,” the statement concluded.