Governor Otti’s Wife Intervenes In Alleged Assault Of Female Staff By Company Owner Over Missing Hoe

The wife of the Abia State Governor, Mrs. Priscilla Chidinma Otti, has intervened in the case of an alleged assault on a casual female worker, Miss Gold James, who was reportedly pushed into fire over a missing hoe at her place of work.

The incident, which occurred in a cottage industry located in Umuahia South LGA, sparked public outcry after it was alleged that Miss Gold James, a native of Okwu Olokoro community, was accused of stealing a hoe , a charge she has consistently denied , and was physically assaulted by the company owner and others.

Responding to the incident, Mrs. Otti sent a delegation from the Abia State Ministry of Women Affairs, led by the Commissioner, Dr. Maureen Aghukwa, to investigate and ascertain the circumstances surrounding the incident.

Speaking during a visit to the Palace of the Traditional Ruler of Okwu Autonomous Community, Eze B.I. Izuogu, Dr. Ag hukwa conveyed the First Lady’s deep concern over the incident, stating that Mrs. Otti is personally committed to ensuring justice for the victim and improving her well-being.

“The First Lady is saddened by what happened to Miss Gold James and is determined to support her in rebuilding her life,” the Commissioner stated.

In his remarks, Eze B.I. Izuogu expressed appreciation to the Governor’s wife for her compassion and unwavering support for vulnerable women and children in Abia State. He described Miss Gold as a hardworking young woman known in the community for her honesty and resilience, with no history of theft or misconduct.

The traditional ruler further disclosed that despite the gravity of the injuries Miss Gold sustained—including burns on her back, shoulders, buttocks, and private area—the alleged perpetrator, who was initially arrested by the police, was later released and has since filed a human rights lawsuit against some members of the community at the High Court in Umuahia.

He called on the authorities to ensure that justice prevails and that vulnerable individuals like Miss Gold are protected.

In her brief remarks, Miss Gold James expressed heartfelt gratitude to Mrs. Priscilla Chidinma Otti for intervening in her travails.