1.The Federal Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development expresses deep concern over disturbing reports from Ozoro in Delta State, where women were allegedly subjected to sexual assault and harassment during activities linked to a local festival in Isoko North. These reports, which have been widely described in public discourse as reflecting elements of “rape culture,” are deeply disturbing, unacceptable, and contrary to all norms of human dignity, public safety, and the rule of law.
2 No cultural or traditional practice can justify or excuse sexual violence in any form. The Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and the Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Act (VAPP Act) provide clear protections: Section 1 prohibits all forms of violence, Section 14 criminalizes harmful traditional practices, and Section 15 prohibits cruel, inhuman, and degrading treatment. Sexual assault is a serious criminal offence, and all allegations must be thoroughly investigated, with perpetrators held fully accountable under the law.
3.This matter underscores, once again, the urgency of strengthening collective action against gender-based violence. It is in this regard that the Federal Government, under the Renewed Hope Agenda of H.E President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, continues to prioritize the safety, dignity, and protection of women and girls, ensuring that no victim is silenced, ignored, or denied justice.
4.The Federal Ministry acknowledges and commends the swift response of the Commissioner of Police, Delta State Command, CP Aina Adesola, and calls for a transparent, thorough, and accelerated investigation to ensure that all persons implicated are identified and brought to justice without delay.
5 In the same spirit, the Federal Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development will intensify collaboration with the Delta State Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development to ensure immediate and coordinated support for any identified victims, including psychosocial care, medical attention, and legal assistance. This response is critical to restoring dignity, safety, and confidence in public protection systems.
6 Beyond immediate response, the Federal Ministry will also deepen sustained engagement with traditional leaders, community institutions, and relevant stakeholders. This is essential to dismantling harmful norms, strengthening accountability within communities, and ensuring that culture is not misused as a cover for violence, but preserved as a force for dignity, respect, and social cohesion.
7 The Ministry calls on all members of the public to support ongoing investigations and cooperate fully with law enforcement authorities. Collective vigilance and cooperation are essential to ensuring that justice is not only done, but seen to be done, and that such incidents are decisively prevented in the future.
Ahmed Lawan Danbazau mnipr
Head, Press and Public Relations FMWASD
