By Daniel Oluwatobiloba Popoola
Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has strongly condemned the assault on women and girls during the Alue-Do festival in Ozoro, Isoko North Local Government Area of Delta State, describing the incident as degrading, barbaric and unacceptable.
The First Lady spoke in a statement issued after a viral video showed girls being physically and sexually assaulted during the community festival, an incident that has generated public outrage and led to arrests by the Nigeria Police Force.
Reacting to the footage, Mrs Tinubu said she watched the disturbing scenes with shock, stressing that cultural practices must never be used to justify violence or abuse against 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,” she said.
While acknowledging Nigeria’s rich cultural diversity, the First Lady maintained that no tradition should override the dignity and fundamental rights of women.
“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 a woman or girl,” she stated.
She further commended the Nigeria Police Force for taking prompt action following the incident, and urged relevant authorities to ensure that those responsible are prosecuted in accordance with the law.
“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 said.
In addition, Mrs Tinubu expressed concern for the victims and advised them to seek medical and psychological support to aid their recovery after the traumatic experience.
“To the victims of this unfortunate incident, I urge you to seek the relevant medical and psychological help. I pray for your healing, peace and strength at this difficult time,” she added.
The incident, which occurred during the Alue-Do festival in Ozoro, has continued to attract reactions nationwide, with renewed calls for stricter enforcement of laws to protect women and girls and to ensure that cultural celebrations are not used as a cover for abuse or violence.
