Over 500 women’s groups demanded the immediate arrest and prosecution of individuals involved in alleged sexual violence during a traditional festival in Ozoro, Delta State. The groups declared that no cultural practice justifies abuse.As reported by ALO360, the coalition operating under the name Womanifesto condemned the incidents which reportedly occurred during the Ozoro Festival.
Abiola Akiyode-Afolabi, co-convener of Womanifesto, issued a statement expressing outrage over videos circulating on social media. The footage showed women being stripped and assaulted by mobs during the event.
“This is not our culture. This is organised and institutionalised abuse, and it must be treated as a crime,” the coalition stated.
Furthermore, the group called on the Inspector-General of Police to order immediate arrests. They emphasized that such acts violated fundamental human rights guaranteed under Nigeria’s 1999 Constitution.
Legal Framework Cited
Additionally, the coalition referenced the Violence Against Persons Prohibition Act. They noted that threats of violence and restrictions placed on women under fear of harm constitute punishable offences.
The group also condemned community leaders who allegedly enabled such acts. Moreover, they criticized bystanders who failed to intervene during the assaults.
“Videos of women being stripped and assaulted by mobs are evidence of crimes in progress and must be treated as such,” the group emphasized.
State Government Promises Swift Action
In response to the outcry, Ossai Ovie Success, Senior Special Assistant on Media to the Delta State Governor, condemned the incidents. He stated that no festival in the state justifies harm toward women.”No tradition or festival justifies harm or embarrassment towards anyone, especially women,” Success stated.
Moreover, he vowed that the individuals involved would face consequences. The state government committed to ensuring justice for the victims.
The coalition demanded immediate deployment of security personnel to Ozoro. They also urged traditional rulers in the community to publicly denounce claims that such actions form part of cultural practices.
Subsequently, Womanifesto appealed to the National Human Rights Commission and international bodies including the United Nations to treat the situation with urgency. The Delta State Government promised to work with law enforcement agencies. Authorities pledged to prevent similar incidents in future celebrations.
