The Federal Government has ordered security agencies to arrest and prosecute individuals allegedly involved in sexual assaults during a local festival in Delta State.
The directive was issued by the Minister of Women Affairs and Social Development, Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, in a statement released on Friday by the ministry’s Head of Press and Public Relations, Ahmed Danbazau, in Abuja.
The directive follows the circulation of a viral video capturing incidents of sexual assault during the Alue-Do Festival, a traditional event often referred to as the “Festival of Fertility” in the Ozoro Kingdom.
Expressing deep concern, the minister condemned reports that women were subjected to harassment and sexual violence during the festival in Isoko North Local Government Area.
“I am deeply concerned by the disturbing reports and footage alleging that women were subjected to sexual assault and harassment during the Alue-Do Festival in Ozoro,” she said.
While commending the swift response of the Delta State Police Command, Sulaiman-Ibrahim 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 added.
Describing the incidents as disturbing and unacceptable, the minister 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, emphasizing that no cultural or traditional practice can excuse such acts.
“No cultural or traditional practice can justify or excuse sexual violence in any form. Sexual 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 stated:
“We remain committed to prioritising the safety, dignity, and protection of women and girls across Nigeria.”
Sulaiman-Ibrahim further noted that the ministry would collaborate with the Delta State Ministry of Women Affairs to support victims, ensuring they receive immediate psychosocial support, medical attention, and legal assistance.
“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 also urged the public to cooperate with law enforcement authorities to ensure justice is served and similar incidents are prevented.