ActionAid Nigeria has condemned the alleged assault and harassment of women and girls during a cultural festival in Ozoro, describing the incident as a grave violation of human dignity.
In a statement issued in Abuja, the organisation’s Country Director, Andrew Mamedu, said videos circulating on social media showing women being chased, harassed, and assaulted highlight serious lapses in ensuring public safety during community events.
The organisation warned against attempts to justify or downplay the incidents on cultural grounds, insisting that no tradition should be used to excuse violence against women and girls.
“Violence against women and girls must never be trivialised, justified, or explained away under any circumstance,” the statement said.
ActionAid noted that the incident reflects deeper systemic issues, including harmful social norms and weak enforcement mechanisms that allow gender-based violence to persist.
The group called on the Governor of Delta State, Sheriff Oborevwori, to ensure that all those involved are identified, arrested, and prosecuted, while also making public the steps taken by authorities.
It further urged law enforcement agencies to be held accountable for any lapses, stressing that their role includes both preventing and responding to such incidents.
The organisation also appealed to the Federal and Delta State Ministries of Women Affairs to provide urgent support to victims, including medical care, counselling, legal aid, and safe reporting channels.
In addition, ActionAid called on traditional authorities in Ozoro Kingdom to review cultural practices that may expose women and girls to harm, emphasising that human dignity must take precedence.
The group reiterated its commitment to advocating for stronger systems to protect women and girls across Nigeria and expressed solidarity with victims of the incident.
Michael Olugbode in Abuja
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