Oredo Hosts SWS South-South Colloquium on Women’s Rights, Justice

OREDO, EDO STATE — Oredo Local Government Area played host to the South-South Zonal Colloquium of the Standup for Women Society (SWS) as part of activities marking International Women’s Day (IWD) 2026, with a strong call for action on women’s rights, justice, and gender equality.

The colloquium, themed “Rights, Justice, Action,” brought together women from across the South-South region, alongside stakeholders, advocates, and dignitaries committed to advancing the cause of women and promoting gender equality.

Welcoming participants, the Chairman of Oredo Local Government Council, Hon. Engr. Gabriel Iduseri, who was represented by his Chief of Staff, Hon. Ebegue Igho-Osagie, commended SWS for championing initiatives that support women and the girl child. He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to promoting women’s inclusion in leadership and development.

In her remarks, the International President of SWS, Liberator (Mrs.) Deborah Ijadele-Adetona (Esq.), expressed appreciation to the council chairman for his support and partnership. She also commended the Coordinator of the Office of the First Lady, Mrs. Edesili Okpebholo Anani, for her empowerment initiatives for women in Edo State.

Adetona reiterated the organisation’s commitment to empowering women and dismantling systemic injustices, while also acknowledging the contributions of the Chairperson of Oredo Local Government Council, Mrs. Blessing Iduseri, to women’s development in the area.

She described the maiden South-South Zonal Colloquium as timely and expressed optimism that perpetrators of violence against women and girls would be brought to justice as advocacy efforts intensify.

Delivering a goodwill message on behalf of Mrs. Anani, the Director-General, Directorate of Education and Quality Assurance, Hon. Mrs. Amen Ogbemudia, described the colloquium as a laudable initiative and urged women and girls to speak out and take decisive action against all forms of violence.

Other goodwill messages were delivered by SWS state chapter chairpersons, directors, and coordinators from across the South-South region. The event also featured the inauguration of new executives for the Edo State chapter, led by Liberator (Rev.) Mrs. Quist-Igumah.

A major highlight of the event was a lecture on mental health delivered by the South-South Zonal Vice President of SWS, Lib. (Dr.) Mrs. Pat Onuwaje.

The colloquium concluded with the presentation of a communiqué advocating an end to gender-based violence, calling for peace in conflict regions, including a ceasefire in the Middle East, and emphasizing the protection of women, children, and vulnerable groups.

Cultural dance performances added colour to the event, reflecting the spirit of unity and advocacy that defined the gathering.

Standup for Women Society is a non-governmental organisation focused on advocacy, empowerment, and leadership development for women and the girl child, while also promoting inclusive support for the male child.