Atiku Congratulates Wife Of Vanguard Editor On Winning Commonwealth Award

Atiku Abubakar, former Vice President of Nigeria, has congratulated Mrs. Itoro Eze-Anaba, wife of Vanguard Editor, on her recognition as the 4th Commonwealth Point of Light in honour.

Mrs Eze-Anaba was earlier in the week recognised by Queen Elizabeth II for her support of more than 3000 victims of rape and sexual assault in Nigeria.

Atiku in a statement on Twitter, lauded Mrs Eze-Anaba and her team for the amazing work in attaining the recognition.

He wrote: “For years, I have identified with the amazing work of Mrs. Itoro Eze-Anaba and her team @MirabelCentreNG. Congratulations, and I am so proud of what you have accomplished.”

For years, I have identified with the amazing work of Mrs. Itoro Eze-Anaba and her team @MirabelCentreNG. Congratulations, and I am so proud of what you have accomplished.https://t.co/Yum9EabWbB

— Atiku Abubakar (@atiku) February 9, 2018

The UK High Commissioner to Nigeria, Paul Arkwright, presented the Commonwealth Award Certificate on behalf of the Queen to Eze-Anaba at a dinner on Tuesday in Abuja.

The High Commissioner commended her for her contributions toward tackling some of the greatest social challenges of our time.

Arkwright said she had shown impressive dedication to supporting victims and provided safe haven for more than 2,800 survivors.

“The Mirabel Centre has established itself as a key service provider for victims of sexual assault in Lagos State, with an increasing number of clients accessing the centre.

“This indicated a growing awareness among members of the public of the existence of the centre and the crucial services it provides.

“Itoro has shown impressive dedication to supporting victims of sexual assault and rape.

“She has provided a safe haven for over 2800 survivors of this heinous crime and has encouraged thousands to break the silence on rape and seek prosecution of perpetrators,’’ he said.

Eze-Anaba, in her remarks expressed delight that a Point of Light had been awarded to highlight the importance of tackling rape and sexual assault.

According to her, the Mirabel Centre is a project of Partnership for Justice where rape and victims of sexual assault can access free forensic medical and counseling services.

She said the centre had helped more than 70 boys raped victims and about 3000 girls that were raped since its inception.