Ikot Effiom, Bakassi—The 7th Bakassi Legislative Assembly has passed the Bakassi Local Government Area Gender-Based Violence (Prohibition, Prevention & Response) Byelaw, 2025, marking a step in the fight against gender-based violence within the LGA NEGROIDHAVEN can report.
Sponsored by Hon. Prince Bassey Mkpeti (Ward 6) the Deputy Leader and co-sponsored by seven other councillors, the byelaw — now designated Law No. 01 of 2025 — establishes a comprehensive legal and institutional framework to prevent, prohibit, and respond to all forms of gender-based violence, including physical, sexual, psychological, and economic abuse.
The legislation prescribes stiff penalties for offenders, with rape carrying a minimum sentence of 12 years and up to life imprisonment without the option of a fine. Other offences such as harmful traditional practices, economic abuse, and witchcraft branding also attract substantial custodial sentences and fines.
According to documents cited by NEGROIDHAVEN, the byelaw introduces community-level enforcement mechanisms, notably the Area Council Anti-GBV Committee and Community Crisis Management Teams (CCMTs), tasked with first response, survivor safety, and referral of cases to the police within 24 hours. The committees will also spearhead public enlightenment campaigns and community engagement to shift harmful norms and promote safer environments for women and girls.
Importantly, the legislation aligns with existing federal and state laws, including the Violence Against Persons Prohibition (VAPP) Act, the Cross River State VAPP Law, the Child Rights Act, and the Criminal Code, while tailoring enforcement to Bakassi’s local context.
Speaking after the passage, the Leader of the Assembly, Rt. Hon. Grace Bassey, described the move as a bold statement against gender-based violence and a commitment to protecting the rights and dignity of residents, especially women and girls. Bassey appreciated the Assembly committee on health lead by Hon Miriam Okon for her committee’s contributions.
The byelaw will take effect upon assent by the Chairman of Bakassi Local Government Area, after which the accompanying Implementation & Monitoring Framework will guide its rollout across all wards.
