Nonye Soludo Urges Women To Tackle Domestic Workers’ Abuse At 2026 August Meeting

As women across Anambra State and the South-East commence the 2026 annual August Meeting, the wife of the Anambra State governor, Dr. Nonye Soludo, has called on participants to prioritize discussions on the rising abuse and maltreatment of domestic workers.

In a message issued on Friday to mark the beginning of the annual gathering, Soludo urged women to use the platform to confront increasing cases of violence, neglect, molestation and inhumane treatment of housemaids, many of whom are minors.

She said the August Meeting, traditionally known for promoting community development and strengthening family values, should also serve as a forum for addressing pressing social and moral challenges affecting children and vulnerable members of society.

According to her, discussions should move beyond community projects and social activities to include practical solutions aimed at tackling domestic violence, child protection and responsible caregiving.

Soludo described reports of physical assault, starvation, torture and emotional abuse of domestic workers as deeply disturbing, stressing that such practices have no place in society.

She noted that children entrusted to families for care and guidance deserve dignity, protection and compassion, regardless of their status in the household.

“The young girl who helps in your home is somebody’s daughter before she becomes your maid. She deserves dignity before duty, compassion before correction and protection before punishment,” she said.

The Anambra First Lady maintained that violence should never be used as a means of raising children or managing a household, urging mothers to embrace empathy, patience and respect for human dignity.

She also encouraged women leaders, presidents-general of women’s associations, faith-based organisations and other community stakeholders to include child protection, conflict resolution and the rights of domestic workers in their deliberations.

Soludo further called for the establishment of community-based systems that promote early reporting, intervention and support for victims of abuse rather than waiting until incidents escalate.

She warned that homes where violence is normalised risk producing another generation that views cruelty as acceptable, adding that nurturing children in safe and loving environments remains essential to building a peaceful society.

While wishing participants successful August Meetings, she expressed confidence that collective action by women across communities would help protect vulnerable children, strengthen family values and promote a more compassionate society.

The annual August Meeting is one of the most prominent socio-cultural gatherings of Igbo women, providing a platform for community development, family welfare and discussions on issues affecting society.