Festival of Fertility: FG Orders Arrest, Promises Justice for Victims

Festival of Fertility: FG Orders Arrest, Promises Justice for Victims

The Federal Government of Nigeria has ordered the immediate arrest and prosecution of individuals linked to alleged sexual assault during a local festival in Ozoro, following widespread outrage triggered by a viral video.

The Minister of Women Affairs and Social Development, Imaan Suleiman-Ibrahim, issued the directive in a statement released in Abuja, describing the reports as “disturbing, unacceptable, and a violation of human dignity.”

The incident is said to have occurred during the Alue-Do Festival—often referred to as a “Festival of Fertility”—held in Isoko North Local Government Area. Viral footage circulating on social media allegedly shows cases of harassment and sexual violence, sparking national concern.

The Nigeria Police Force in Delta State has launched an investigation, with authorities confirming that officers have been deployed to the community to identify suspects, verify the authenticity of the footage, and collect evidence from victims and witnesses.

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The minister commended the swift response of security agencies but called for a “transparent, thorough, and accelerated investigation” to ensure all perpetrators are brought to justice.

She emphasised that Nigeria’s legal framework, particularly the Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Act, clearly criminalises such acts, stressing that “no cultural or traditional practice can justify sexual violence.”

Reaffirming the government’s commitment to protecting women and girls, Suleiman-Ibrahim disclosed that the ministry would collaborate with the Delta State Ministry of Women Affairs to provide medical care, psychosocial support, and legal assistance to affected persons.

She also noted that the government would engage traditional rulers and community stakeholders in Ozoro Kingdom to address harmful practices and prevent future occurrences.

Meanwhile, civil society organisations and gender rights advocates have demanded swift justice, calling for the arrest and prosecution of those responsible and stronger enforcement of laws against gender-based violence.

Community leaders in Ozoro have reportedly distanced the festival from the alleged acts, insisting that such behaviour is not part of their cultural heritage.

Authorities have urged the public to remain calm, avoid spreading unverified information, and support ongoing investigations as efforts continue to uncover the full circumstances surrounding the incident.

Festival of Fertility: FG Orders Arrest, Promises Justice for Victims