The Federal Government of Nigeria has directed the arrest and prosecution of individuals responsible for alleged sexual assaults during a recent festival in Ozoro, Delta State. The directive was issued by Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, Minister of Women Affairs and Social Development, following widespread reports and a viral social media video documenting the incidents.
The alleged assaults occurred during the Alue-Do-Festival, a traditional event in the Ozoro Kingdom of Isoko North Local Government Area, which is locally referred to as a “Festival of Fertility.” Minister Sulaiman-Ibrahim expressed profound concern over the reports, stating that women were subjected to sexual assault and harassment during the festival activities.
In a statement released by the ministry’s Head of Press and Public Relations, Ahmed Danbazau, the minister commended the Delta State Police Command for its prompt response but called for a “transparent, thorough, and accelerated investigation.” She emphasized that all persons implicated must be identified and brought to justice without delay.
Sulaiman-Ibrahim described the alleged incidents as disturbing, unacceptable, and a direct violation of human dignity, public safety, and the rule of law. She underscored that Nigeria’s Constitution and the Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Act (VAPP Act) provide clear legal protections against such offences. “No cultural or traditional practice can justify or excuse sexual violence in any form,” the minister stated. “Sexual assault is a serious criminal offence, and all allegations must be thoroughly investigated, with perpetrators held fully accountable under the law.”
Reaffirming the government’s commitment to the safety and protection of women and girls, the minister announced plans to strengthen collaboration with the Delta State Ministry of Women Affairs. This partnership aims to provide immediate support for victims, including psychosocial care, medical attention, and legal assistance.
Furthermore, the ministry will intensify efforts to engage traditional leaders and community stakeholders. The goal is to address harmful norms and practices that perpetuate gender-based violence and prevent a recurrence of such incidents. The Federal Government also urged the public to cooperate fully with law enforcement to ensure justice is served and future incidents are prevented.
The case highlights the tension between cultural traditions and national laws concerning gender-based violence. The government’s firm stance, invoking the VAPP Act, signals a prioritization of legal statutes over alleged customary excuses, reinforcing a national standard for the prosecution of sexual offences.
