Security services in Ozoro, Delta State, have been instructed by the federal government to apprehend and prosecute anybody suspected of sexual assaults connected to a local celebration.
The decision was issued by Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, the Minister of Women Affairs and Social Development, in a statement made public in Abuja on Friday by Ahmed Danbazau, the ministry’s head of press and public relations.
The order comes after a video went viral early on Friday that showed instances of sexual assault at the Alue-Do Festival, a customary occasion in the Ozoro Kingdom known as the “Festival of Fertility.”
The minister expressed grave concern and denounced allegations that women were harassed and sexually assaulted at the events in Isoko North Local Government Area.
“The unsettling reports and viral footage alleging that women were subjected to sexual assault and harassment during the Alue-Do Festival in Ozoro deeply concern me,” she stated.
She called for an open, comprehensive, and quick investigation while praising the Delta State Police Command’s prompt response.
“I applaud the Delta State Police Command’s swift action, but I demand that the investigation be transparent, comprehensive, and expedited to guarantee that all individuals involved are identified and promptly brought to justice,” she said.
Sulaiman-Ibrahim described the instances as unsettling and reprehensible, emphasizing that such activities violate public safety, human dignity, and the rule of law.
She declared, “These incidents are unsettling, intolerable, and a blatant violation of public safety, human dignity, and the rule of law.”
She emphasized that such behavior cannot be justified by culture.
“Sexual violence in any form cannot be justified or excused by any cultural or customary practice. The minister went on, “Sexual assault is a serious criminal offense, and all allegations must be thoroughly investigated with perpetrators held fully accountable under the law.”
She stated, reiterating the Federal Government’s dedication to safeguarding women and girls:
“We are still dedicated to giving women’s and girls’ safety, dignity, and protection top priority throughout Nigeria.”
In order to assist victims, she said, the ministry would work with the Delta State Ministry of Women Affairs.
“To ensure victims receive immediate psychosocial support, medical attention, and legal assistance, we will strengthen collaboration,” she stated.
In order to stop a repetition, the minister also emphasized the necessity of involving community leaders.
“To address detrimental norms and prevent a recurrence of such incidents, we will continue to engage traditional leaders and community stakeholders,” she continued.
In order to guarantee that justice is done and that similar incidents are avoided, the ministry also asked the public to assist law enforcement.
