Authorities in Nigeria are responding swiftly after reports of sexual assault emerged during the Alue-Do Festival in Ozoro, Delta State. The festival, celebrated as a traditional “Festival of Fertility”, has come under scrutiny following a video circulating online that allegedly shows women being harassed.
The Federal Government has now ordered the immediate arrest and prosecution of individuals accused of sexual assault during the festival
Minister of Women Affairs and Social Development, Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, echoed the condemnation, describing the acts as “unacceptable violations of human dignity”.
She emphasized that no tradition can excuse sexual violence and called for a thorough, transparent, and expedited investigation.
The ministry said it would work with the Delta State Ministry of Women Affairs to provide victims with medical care, counseling, and legal support, while engaging traditional leaders and community stakeholders to prevent recurrence.
Meanwhile, the Delta State government has condemned reports of harassment and assault at the event in Isoko North LGA.
In a statement, Charles Aniagwu, Commissioner for Works (Rural Roads) and Public Information, described the incidents as “deeply disturbing” and stressed that cultural celebrations must never be used to justify criminal acts.
“Such barbaric acts are totally unacceptable and have no place in our society”, he said, calling on security agencies to investigate and ensure perpetrators are brought to justice.
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