A civil society organisation, Speak Out for Justice Advocacy, has condemned alleged sexual violence against women and girls during a cultural festival in Ozoro, describing the incident as a serious violation of human rights and Nigerian law.
In a statement issued on Sunday, the group expressed concern over reports that women and young girls were stripped, publicly humiliated and assaulted during the event, said to have occurred on March 19.
While noting that arrests have reportedly been made, SOJA emphasised the need for urgent, transparent and decisive action to ensure accountability and justice for victims.
The organisation stated that, if confirmed, the acts would constitute criminal offences under Nigerian law and breach the country’s international obligations to safeguard the dignity and safety of women and girls.
“No cultural practice or traditional expression can justify violence, degradation or violations of bodily autonomy,” the statement said.
SOJA referenced key international human rights frameworks, including the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women, as well as regional instruments such as the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights and the Maputo Protocol.
It added that Nigeria’s domestic legal framework, including the Constitution and the Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Act, criminalises sexual assault, degrading treatment and related abuses.
The group warned against attempts to justify such actions under cultural practices, stressing that traditions must conform to the rule of law and respect for human dignity.
SOJA called on the Federal Government, the Delta State Government and law enforcement agencies to ensure thorough prosecution of those arrested and to identify and bring other perpetrators to justice.
It also urged authorities to provide immediate medical, psychological and legal support to victims, alongside instituting an independent inquiry into the incident and any systemic lapses.
The organisation further recommended stronger enforcement of the Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Act nationwide and closer collaboration with traditional institutions to eliminate harmful practices.
Executive Director of SOJA, Hameed Jimoh, said the incident should mark a turning point for accountability and renewed commitment to protecting women’s rights.
He stressed that the dignity, safety and bodily integrity of women and girls must remain non-negotiable, adding that justice must be served.
