Nigeria’s First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, has spoken out against the attack on women and girls during the Alue-Do Festival held in Ozoro, located in Isoko North Local Government Area of Delta State.
In a statement released on Sunday, she reacted to videos circulating online that showed young women being chased, stripped, and attacked during the community celebration.
She described the scenes as disturbing and inhumane, noting that such actions should never be linked to any cultural practice.
She explained that while Nigeria is known for its many traditions, none should allow the abuse or humiliation of women and girls.
According to her, culture must not be used as a cover for acts that harm people or take away their dignity.
The First Lady called on security agencies and other authorities to make sure those behind the incident are properly dealt with under the law.
She also acknowledged the efforts already made by the Nigeria Police Force, which has begun making arrests in connection with the case.
She encouraged victims to seek medical care and emotional support as they recover from the experience, while also wishing them strength during this period.
The incident happened on Thursday during the Alue-Do Festival, a yearly event in the Ozoro community.
Videos shared online showed groups of young men attacking women in public, tearing their clothes and assaulting them during the daytime.
Reports indicate that part of the festival involves restricting women from moving around at certain hours, and those who were seen outside were allegedly targeted.
Community leaders in Ozoro have denied that the violence is part of their tradition. They explained that the event was taken over by criminals who used the gathering as an opportunity to carry out the attacks.
The Delta State Police Command confirmed that 15 suspects have been arrested so far, including a local leader. Early findings suggest the acts were carried out by individuals taking advantage of the festival, rather than being a recognised cultural practice.
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