Nigeria’s first lady, Oluremi Tinubu, on Sunday, strongly condemned the sexual abuse of women and girls linked to the Alue-Do festival, also known as the festival of fertility, held in Ozoro, located in Isoko North local government area.
In a statement she personally signed, Tinubu reacted to widely circulated videos showing victims being chased, stripped, and mistreated, describing the scenes as horrific and barbaric.
She stressed that while Nigeria’s cultural diversity should be respected, no tradition should ever be used to justify violating the rights and dignity of women and girls.
“I watched the horrific viral footage emerging from Ozoro, Isoko North local government area of Delta State, showing girls physically and sexually assaulted, subjected to degrading and barbaric treatment during what was supposed to be a community festival.
“Whilst I hold deep respect for the diverse rich cultures and traditions that make us who we are as a people, I believe that no such tradition or custom grants any man the right to violate the dignity or freedom of any woman or girl,” the statement read.
The first lady called on authorities to ensure justice is served, praising the actions already taken by the Nigeria Police Force.
“I commend the Nigeria Police Force for the arrests already made and urge all relevant authorities to ensure that all perpetrators face the full weight of the law.”
She also encouraged affected victims to seek medical and psychological care.
“I pray for your healing, peace and strength at this difficult time,” Tinubu added.
The incident took place on Thursday, March 19, during the Alue-Do Festival in Ozoro, a traditional event within the Ozoro community.
Videos circulating online captured groups of young men attacking women in public spaces, tearing their clothes and physically assaulting them.
It was learned that a traditional restriction on women’s movement during certain hours may have been misused to target victims.
Community authorities, including the Ozoro kingdom, have distanced themselves from the acts, insisting the violence does not reflect genuine cultural practices and was carried out by criminal elements.
Meanwhile, the Delta state police command confirmed the arrest of 15 suspects, including a community leader, noting that early findings show the attacks were perpetrated by individuals exploiting the festival rather than any legitimate tradition.
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