The Federal Government has called for the swift arrest and prosecution of persons allegedly involved in sexual assault during a community festival in Ozoro, Delta State.
The Minister of Women Affairs and Social Development, Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, gave the directive in a statement issued on Friday in Abuja by the ministry’s Head of Press and Public Relations, Ahmed Danbazau.
The development followed the emergence of a viral video on social media on Thursday, which reportedly captured incidents of sexual assault during the Alue-Do Festival, also known as the “Festival of Fertility,” in Ozoro Kingdom.
Reacting to the reports, the minister expressed serious concern over allegations that some women were harassed and assaulted during the event held in Isoko North Local Government Area.
While acknowledging the prompt action taken by the Delta State Police Command, she urged security agencies to carry out a detailed, transparent and time-bound investigation to ensure all those involved are identified and prosecuted.
Sulaiman-Ibrahim described the alleged acts as deeply troubling and a violation of fundamental human rights, public safety and the rule of law, noting that relevant legal frameworks, including the Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Act, clearly criminalise such conduct.
She stressed that cultural practices must not be used as a cover for abuse, insisting that sexual violence in any form remains a grave offence that must be decisively addressed under the law.
The minister reiterated the government’s resolve to protect the rights and dignity of women and girls, adding that arrangements were being made to provide victims with necessary support, including medical care, psychological services and legal aid.
She further noted that the ministry would partner with the Delta State Ministry of Women Affairs, traditional institutions and other stakeholders to curb harmful practices and prevent a recurrence.
The ministry also appealed to the public to cooperate with law enforcement agencies to ensure justice is achieved and similar incidents are avoided in the future.