The Federal Government has directed the immediate arrest and prosecution of individuals linked to the alleged sexual assault of women during a controversial traditional festival in Ozoro, Delta State, as national outrage deepens over the incident that has sparked widespread condemnation and renewed scrutiny of cultural practices across the country.
The directive was issued by the Minister of Women Affairs and Social Development, Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, who expressed grave concern over reports that women were subjected to harassment and sexual violence during the ‘Alue-Do’ festival, a local rite in Isoko North Local Government Area often associated with fertility traditions. The minister’s intervention follows the circulation of disturbing videos showing young women being chased, stripped, and molested in broad daylight, scenes that have since triggered a national conversation on safety, human rights, and the role of law enforcement in preventing such occurrences.
In a statement released in Abuja, Sulaiman-Ibrahim described the reported incidents as deeply troubling and incompatible with the principles of human dignity, public safety, and the rule of law. She emphasised that while cultural heritage remains an important part of community identity, it must not be used as a shield for criminal acts or violations of fundamental rights.
“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,” she said, stressing that existing legal frameworks provide clear protections against such abuses.
The minister called for a “transparent, thorough, and accelerated investigation,” urging security agencies to ensure that all those implicated in the assaults are identified and brought to justice without delay. She commended the response of law enforcement authorities in Delta State, noting that swift action is critical not only for accountability but also for restoring public confidence in the justice system.
The incident, which occurred during the ‘Alue-Do’ festival, has drawn attention to longstanding concerns surrounding certain traditional observances that impose restrictions on women’s movement and expose them to risks of harassment. Historically described by locals as a fertility rite intended to invoke blessings for couples seeking children, the festival has come under intense criticism following the latest developments, with many questioning the legitimacy of practices that endanger women under the guise of culture.
Legal experts and rights advocates have pointed to Nigeria’s constitutional provisions and the Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Act as clear safeguards against such violations, noting that the law criminalises acts of sexual assault, harassment, and any form of inhumane treatment. The minister reiterated this position, affirming that the government remains committed to enforcing these protections and ensuring that offenders face the full weight of the law.
Beyond enforcement, Sulaiman-Ibrahim outlined immediate steps to support victims of the attacks, including collaboration with the Delta State Ministry of Women Affairs to provide psychosocial care, medical attention, and legal assistance. She noted that addressing the aftermath of such incidents requires not only justice but also comprehensive support systems to help victims recover and rebuild.
She further disclosed that the Federal Government would intensify engagement with traditional rulers and community stakeholders to confront harmful norms and prevent a recurrence of similar incidents. This approach, she said, is essential in bridging the gap between cultural practices and modern legal standards, ensuring that traditions evolve in ways that respect and protect human rights.
The ministry also called on members of the public to cooperate with law enforcement agencies by providing relevant information that could aid ongoing investigations. Officials stressed that community participation is vital in ensuring that perpetrators are held accountable and that preventive measures are effectively implemented.
The developments in Ozoro have continued to reverberate across Nigeria, with growing calls for institutional reforms, stricter regulation of cultural festivals, and improved security intelligence to prevent future occurrences. As authorities intensify investigations and pursue those responsible, the Federal Government’s directive signals a firm stance against impunity, reinforcing the principle that no tradition or custom can override the rights and dignity of citizens.
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