A civil society organisation, CSO, has called for urgent efforts to reduce abortion-related stigma and maternal mortality in Akwa Ibom State. The group said negative attitudes toward abortion and poor access to maternal healthcare continue to put the lives of women at risk.

According to the organisation, many women avoid seeking medical help due to fear of judgment, discrimination, or legal consequences. This silence, it noted, often leads to unsafe practices that increase complications during pregnancy and childbirth.

The CSO urged the government and health stakeholders to invest more in maternal health services, awareness campaigns, and community education. It stressed that saving women’s lives requires open conversations, accurate information, and access to quality healthcare facilities.

The group also appealed for supportive policies that protect women’s health and dignity. It said reducing stigma and improving maternal care would help lower preventable deaths and improve overall health outcomes for women across Akwa Ibom State.