A coalition of over 500 women’s rights organisations under the aegis of Womanifesto has condemned alleged cases of sexual violence against women in Ozoro during a traditional festival.
The group called on the Inspector-General of Police to immediately order the arrest and prosecution of those responsible for the reported abuses.
In a statement issued by its co-convener, Abiola Akiyode-Afolabi, the coalition expressed outrage over videos circulating on social media, which it said show women being stripped and assaulted by mobs.
According to the group, such acts amount to serious violations of human rights and cannot be justified under any cultural or traditional practice.
“This is not our culture. This is organised and institutionalised abuse, and it must be treated as a crime,” the statement said.
Womanifesto stressed that Nigeria’s 1999 Constitution guarantees citizens the right to dignity, freedom of movement, and protection from inhumane treatment, noting that these rights cannot be suspended under any circumstance.
The coalition also referenced the Violence Against Persons Prohibition Act, stating that threats of violence or restrictions placed on women under fear of harm are punishable offences.
It further condemned not only the perpetrators but also community leaders allegedly enabling such acts, as well as bystanders who failed to intervene.
The group demanded immediate deployment of security personnel to the area, arrest of suspects identified in video footage, and prosecution of offenders in accordance with the law.
It also called on the Delta State Government, the Nigeria Police Force, and federal authorities to take urgent steps to halt the incidents and ensure the safety of women and girls.
In addition, Womanifesto urged traditional rulers in Ozoro to publicly denounce any claims that such actions are part of cultural practices.
The coalition appealed to civil society organisations, the National Human Rights Commission, and international bodies, including the United Nations, to treat the situation with urgency.
“Videos of women being stripped and assaulted by mobs are evidence of crimes in progress and must be treated as such,” the group said.
Friday Olokor, Abuja
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