Veteran Nollywood actress Gina Onuoha has raised concerns over what she described as a growing culture of domestic violence and child abuse in some Igbo communities, calling for urgent action from leaders and stakeholders across the South East.
In a video message shared online, the actress said she had recently come across disturbing videos and reports showing women being assaulted by their partners, as well as children allegedly being abused by guardians and caregivers.
“There is a problem in Igboland,” Onuoha stated, warning against what she described as the normalization of abusive behavior within the community.
The actress criticized men who use their financial status or role as family providers to justify violence against women, stressing that true leadership and manhood are rooted in character, integrity, and responsibility.
She also condemned cases of child abuse, particularly involving children sent to live with relatives or other families as domestic helpers.
According to her, some women channel frustrations from troubled marriages or personal challenges onto vulnerable children placed in their care, a practice she described as unacceptable.
Onuoha called on governors, traditional rulers, religious leaders, and community stakeholders across the South East to begin addressing the issue through public awareness campaigns, town hall meetings, and community discussions.
She warned that the continued abuse of women and children could have long term consequences for the future of the region if left unchecked.
While acknowledging that many Igbo men and women are responsible and law abiding citizens, the actress maintained that the growing number of reported abuse cases should not be ignored.
“There is a problem in our community,” she said, urging leaders to confront the issue and work toward lasting solutions.
Her comments have since sparked conversations online, with many social media users weighing in on the need to tackle domestic violence and child abuse across Nigerian communities.