The Federal Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development (FMWASD) has condemned alleged incidents of sexual violence in Ozoro community, Isoko North Local Government Area of Delta State, describing the reports as disturbing and a grave violation of human dignity.
In a press statement issued yesterday (Friday March 20, 2026) by the Head, Press and Public Relations FMWASD, Ahmed Lawan Danbazau mnipr, and made available to newsmen, the Minister of Women Affairs, Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, denounced the alleged assault and harassment of women during activities linked to a local festival, stressing that no cultural or traditional practice can justify sexual violence.
The ministry noted that the allegations, widely discussed in public discourse as reflecting elements of “rape culture,” are unacceptable and contrary to the rule of law and public safety standards.
Citing relevant legal provisions, the minister emphasised that the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and the Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Act (VAPP Act) prohibit all forms of violence. According to the statement, Section 1 of the Act outlaws violence, while Sections 14 and 15 criminalise harmful traditional practices and inhuman or degrading treatment.
“Sexual assault remains a serious criminal offence, and all allegations must be thoroughly investigated, with perpetrators brought to justice,” the statement said.
The ministry reiterated the Federal Government’s commitment, under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, to safeguarding the rights, dignity and wellbeing of women and girls across the country.
While commending the prompt response of the Delta State Commissioner of Police, CP Aina Adesola, the minister called for a transparent and speedy investigation to ensure that anyone found culpable is held accountable.
The statement also disclosed that the ministry would strengthen collaboration with the Delta State Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development to provide immediate support for victims, including psychosocial services, medical care and legal assistance.
Beyond the immediate response, the ministry pledged to intensify engagement with traditional rulers, community leaders and other stakeholders to address harmful cultural practices and promote values that uphold dignity and respect.
It further urged members of the public to cooperate with law enforcement agencies by providing useful information to aid ongoing investigations.
The ministry stressed that collective vigilance is necessary to ensure justice is served and to prevent a recurrence of such incidents in any part of the country.
