Prosper Okoye
The Obi of Onitsha, Igwe Nnaemeka Alfred Ugochukwu Achebe, has called for harsher punishments for men who assault women, saying it would serve as a deterrent against further abuse. He made the call on Wednesday during a television interview.
Speaking on the traditional justice system in Onitsha, the Obi explained that the palace court, formally structured since 1972, handles almost all disputes outside criminal matters. The court sits every weekday, hears cases, and delivers written judgments. The process is largely arbitral, encouraging parties to reach outcomes acceptable to all. Yet, anyone dissatisfied with the ruling can still approach statutory courts.
The monarch highlighted the story of a young girl who reported an assault to the police, only to be asked to pay ₦200,000 to proceed. “This shows how costly and inaccessible the formal justice system can be,” he said, adding that many people turn to traditional institutions for justice.
Join our WhatsApp ChannelObi Achebe noted that gender-based violence is on the rise, partly due to economic hardship. “Most physical violence is committed by men against women, although some verbal attacks by women also occur,” he said.
He recounted a case where a titled man assaulted his wife. The traditional court punished him with a six-month suspension and a ₦300,000 fine. The Obi admitted he had pushed for a stiffer penalty, but his council appealed for leniency, citing the husband’s reaction to persistent verbal attacks from his wife.
On women’s inclusion, the Obi reflected on his upbringing with sisters, saying it shaped his commitment to gender equality. At Intercontinental Breweries, where he served as chairman, women sat on the board of directors while he was the only male member.
He further stated that educated leaders now helm many traditional institutions, equipping them to drive social change and transformation, even without being formally recognised as a fourth tier of government in the Constitution.
Obi Accuses Tinubu Government of Fiscal Recklessness Over Overlapping Budgets
Obi of Onitsha Explains ‘Comments’ On Kaduna Train Attack
Obi Of Onitsha Marks Ofala Festival In Low-key
The Obi revealed that the palace is conducting a study on gender-based violence and will soon compile its findings for formal presentation. He urged society to recognise the role of traditional institutions in delivering justice and promoting social cohesion.
Prosper Okoye is a Correspondent and Research Writer at Prime Business Africa, a Nigerian journalist with experience in development reporting, public affairs, and policy-focused storytelling across Africa
