The First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has strongly condemned the assault of women and girls during the Alue-Do Festival in Ozoro, Isoko North Local Government Area of Delta State.
In a statement personally signed by her on Sunday, Tinubu described the viral videos showing girls being chased, stripped, and molested as “horrific” and “barbaric.”
She emphasized that while Nigeria’s cultural diversity is a source of pride, no tradition can justify violating the rights and dignity of women.
“I watched the horrific footage emerging from Ozoro showing girls physically and sexually assaulted, subjected to degrading and barbaric treatment during what should have been a community celebration,” Tinubu said.
“Whilst I hold deep respect for our rich cultural heritage, no custom grants any man the right to violate the dignity or freedom of any woman or girl.”
She commended the Nigeria Police Force for the arrests already made and urged that all perpetrators face the full weight of the law.
“I urge relevant authorities to ensure justice is served. I also call on the victims to seek appropriate medical and psychological support. I pray for your healing, peace, and strength during this difficult time,” the statement added.
The incident occurred on Thursday during the Alue-Do Festival, which reportedly included a traditional practice that restricts the movement of women. Disturbing videos shared online showed young men pursuing women and female students, tearing their clothes, groping, and assaulting them in broad daylight.
Local leaders, including the Ozoro Kingdom, have distanced themselves from the violence, insisting that the assaults were carried out by criminal elements and do not reflect authentic cultural practices.
Delta State Police Command has arrested 15 suspects so far, including a community head, and said preliminary investigations suggest that the attacks were orchestrated by individuals exploiting the festival rather than being part of any legitimate tradition.
