A coalition comprising over 500 women’s rights organizations, operating under the umbrella of Womanifesto, has condemned incidents of sexual violence reported during the Ozoro traditional festival.
The group has urged the Inspector-General of Police to take immediate action to arrest and bring to justice those behind the alleged abuses.
In a statement released by co-convener Abiola Akiyode-Afolabi, the coalition expressed deep concern regarding videos circulating on social media that depict women being stripped and attacked by mobs.
The coalition contends that these actions are grave violations of human rights and cannot be excused by any traditional or cultural norms.
“This behavior is not reflective of our culture. It is a form of organized and systematic abuse, which should be recognized as criminal,” the statement emphasized.
Womanifesto pointed out that the 1999 Constitution of Nigeria grants every citizen the right to dignity, freedom of movement, and protection against inhumane treatment, affirming that these rights are inviolable.
Additionally, they referred to the Violence Against Persons Prohibition Act, highlighting that threats of violence or coercion directed at women under the threat of harm are punishable offenses.
The coalition also condemned not only the alleged perpetrators but also community leaders who purportedly condone such actions, as well as bystanders who do not intervene.
They called for the immediate deployment of security forces to the region, as well as the arrest of suspects identified in the video recordings and their prosecution under the law.
Furthermore, Womanifesto urged the Delta State Government, the Nigeria Police Force, and federal authorities to take prompt measures to prevent similar incidents and ensure the protection of women and girls.
They called on traditional leaders in Ozoro to publicly reject any assertions that these actions form part of cultural practices.
The coalition also appealed to civil society organizations, the National Human Rights Commission, and international entities, including the United Nations, to address this issue urgently.
“Footage showing women being assaulted by mobs constitutes evidence of crimes in progress and must be treated as such,” the group reaffirmed.
Friday Olokor, Abuja
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