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