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Nation Reacts As Govt Moves To Prosecute Those Behind Ozoro Sexual Assault Incident
The Federal Government has instructed security agencies to arrest and prosecute those allegedly involved in sexual assault incidents connected to a local festival in Ozoro, Delta State.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶
The directive was issued by the Minister of Women Affairs and Social Development, Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, in a statement released on Friday in Abuja through the ministry’s Head of Press and Public Relations, Ahmed Danbazau.
The move follows the emergence of a viral video showing alleged cases of sexual assault during the Alue-Do Festival, a traditional event in the Ozoro Kingdom often described as a “Festival of Fertility.”
Expressing serious concern, the minister condemned reports that women were harassed and assaulted during the event in Isoko North Local Government Area.
She also acknowledged the swift response of the Delta State Police Command but called for a thorough, transparent, and speedy investigation to ensure all those involved are identified and prosecuted.
Describing the incidents as alarming and unacceptable, Sulaiman-Ibrahim stressed that such acts violate human dignity, public safety, and the rule of law.
She emphasised that no cultural or traditional practice can justify sexual violence, noting that such offences must be properly investigated and offenders held accountable.
The minister reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to safeguarding the rights, safety, and dignity of women and girls across the country.
She added that the ministry would work closely with the Delta State Ministry of Women Affairs to provide victims with psychosocial support, medical care, and legal assistance.
Sulaiman-Ibrahim also highlighted the importance of engaging traditional and community leaders to address harmful practices and prevent future occurrences.
The ministry further called on the public to cooperate with law enforcement agencies to ensure justice is served and similar incidents are avoided.
