A coalition of over 500 women’s rights organisations has condemned alleged cases of sexual abuse against women during a traditional festival in Ozoro, Delta State, demanding the immediate arrest and prosecution of those responsible.
The groups, under the aegis of Womanifesto, made the call in a statement issued by its co-convener, Abiola Akiyode-Afolabi, expressing outrage over viral videos showing women being stripped and assaulted by mobs.
The coalition described the incidents as grave violations of human rights, stressing that no cultural or traditional practice can justify such acts.
“This is not our culture. This is organised and institutionalised abuse, and it must be treated as a crime,” the group said.
It noted that the 1999 Constitution of Nigeria guarantees the dignity of the human person, freedom of movement, and protection from inhumane treatment, adding that these rights cannot be suspended under any circumstance.
The group also cited the Violence Against Persons Prohibition Act, stating that threats, intimidation, and acts of violence against women are punishable offences under the law.
Womanifesto further condemned community leaders allegedly enabling the acts, as well as bystanders who failed to intervene.
The coalition called on the Inspector-General of Police and other security agencies to deploy personnel to the area, identify suspects captured in the videos, and ensure their prosecution.
It also urged the Delta State Government and relevant authorities to take urgent steps to prevent a recurrence and guarantee the safety of women and girls.
In addition, the group appealed to traditional rulers in Ozoro to publicly denounce any claims linking the alleged abuses to cultural practices.
The coalition called on civil society organisations, the National Human Rights Commission, and international bodies, including the United Nations, to treat the matter with urgency.
According to the group, the circulating videos provide evidence of crimes that must be addressed without delay.
Arise News TV