The Federal Government of Nigeria has ordered security agencies to apprehend and prosecute suspects connected to alleged s*xual assaults associated with a local festival in Ozoro.
The Minister of Women Affairs and Social Development, Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, issued the directive in a statement released on Friday in Abuja by the ministry’s Head of Press and Public Relations, Ahmed Danbazau.
The directive follows the circulation of a viral video early Friday, which captured incidents of s*xual assault during the Alue-Do Festival, a traditional event often referred to as a “Festival of Fertility” in the Ozoro Kingdom.
Expressing deep concern, the minister condemned reports that women were subjected to harassment and s*xual violence during the activities in Isoko North Local Government Area.
She said, “I am deeply concerned by the disturbing reports and viral footage alleging that women were subjected to s*xual assault and harassment during the Alue-Do Festival in Ozoro.”
While commending the swift response of the Delta State Police Command, she called for a transparent, thorough, and expedited investigation.
“I commend the prompt action of the Delta State Police Command, but I urge that the investigation be transparent, thorough, and accelerated to ensure that all persons implicated are identified and brought to justice without delay,” she stated.
Describing the incidents as disturbing and unacceptable, Sulaiman-Ibrahim stressed that such acts violate human dignity, public safety, and the rule of law.
“These incidents are disturbing, unacceptable, and a clear violation of human dignity, public safety, and the rule of law,” she said.
She emphasised that no cultural justification can excuse such acts.
“No cultural or traditional practice can justify or excuse s*xual violence in any form. S*xual assault is a serious criminal offence, and all allegations must be thoroughly investigated, with perpetrators held fully accountable under the law,” the minister added.
Reaffirming the Federal Government’s commitment to protecting women and girls, she noted:
“We remain committed to prioritising the safety, dignity, and protection of women and girls across Nigeria.”
She added that the ministry would collaborate with the Delta State Ministry of Women Affairs to support victims.
“We will strengthen collaboration to ensure victims receive immediate psychosocial support, medical attention, and legal assistance,” she said.
The minister also stressed the need to engage community leaders to prevent a recurrence.
“We will continue to engage traditional leaders and community stakeholders to address harmful norms and prevent a recurrence of such incidents,” she added.
The ministry further urged the public to cooperate with law enforcement authorities to ensure justice is served and similar incidents are prevented.
