The federal government has directed the arrest and prosecution of individuals involved in alleged sexual assaults linked to a local festival in Ozoro, Delta State.
The directive was issued by Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, minister of Women Affairs and Social Development, in a statement released on Friday in Abuja by the ministry’s Head of Press and Public Relations, Ahmed Danbazau.
The move follows the circulation of a viral video on Thursday alleging incidents of sexual assault during the Alue-Do Festival, traditionally described as a “festival of fertility” in Ozoro Kingdom.
Sulaiman-Ibrahim expressed deep concern over reports that women were subjected to sexual assault and harassment during the event in Isoko North Local Government Area.
While commending the prompt response of the Nigeria Police Force in Delta State, she called for a “transparent, thorough and expedited investigation” to ensure all those implicated are identified and brought to justice.
Describing the allegations as disturbing and unacceptable, the minister said such acts violate human dignity, public safety and the rule of law. She emphasised that both the Nigerian Constitution and the Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Act provide clear protection against sexual violence.
“No cultural or traditional practice can justify sexual violence in any form,” she said, stressing that all allegations must be fully investigated and offenders held accountable.
She reaffirmed the government’s commitment to safeguarding the rights and dignity of women and girls, adding that the ministry would collaborate with the Delta State Ministry of Women Affairs to provide immediate support for victims, including psychosocial services, medical care and legal assistance.
The minister also said efforts would be intensified to engage traditional leaders and community stakeholders to address harmful cultural norms and prevent a recurrence.
She urged members of the public to cooperate with law enforcement agencies to ensure justice is served.
The federal government has directed the arrest and prosecution of individuals involved in alleged sexual assaults linked to a local festival in Ozoro.
The directive was issued by Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, minister of Women Affairs and Social Development, in a statement released on Friday in Abuja by the ministry’s Head of Press and Public Relations, Ahmed Danbazau.
The move follows the circulation of a viral video on Thursday alleging incidents of sexual assault during the Alue-Do Festival, traditionally described as a “festival of fertility” in Ozoro Kingdom.
Sulaiman-Ibrahim expressed deep concern over reports that women were subjected to sexual assault and harassment during the event in Isoko North Local Government Area.
While commending the prompt response of the Nigeria Police Force in Delta State, she called for a “transparent, thorough and expedited investigation” to ensure all those implicated are identified and brought to justice.
Describing the allegations as disturbing and unacceptable, the minister said such acts violate human dignity, public safety and the rule of law. She emphasised that both the Nigerian Constitution and the Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Act provide clear protection against sexual violence.
“No cultural or traditional practice can justify sexual violence in any form,” she said, stressing that all allegations must be fully investigated and offenders held accountable.
She reaffirmed the government’s commitment to safeguarding the rights and dignity of women and girls, adding that the ministry would collaborate with the Delta State Ministry of Women Affairs to provide immediate support for victims, including psychosocial services, medical care and legal assistance.
The minister also said efforts would be intensified to engage traditional leaders and community stakeholders to address harmful cultural norms and prevent a recurrence.
She urged members of the public to cooperate with law enforcement agencies to ensure justice is served.
