The Human Rights Pathfinders Association (HURPA) strongly condemns, in the most unequivocal terms, the disturbing reports of sexual violence allegedly perpetrated under the guise of an “annual festival” in Ozoro community, Delta State.

The viral videos and eyewitness accounts depicting young women being chased, cornered, and assaulted in broad daylight are not only horrifying but represent a gross violation of fundamental human rights, dignity, and bodily autonomy. Such acts are barbaric, criminal, and have no place in any society that claims to uphold justice, culture, or humanity.

These actions are in clear violation of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, particularly:

Section 34, which guarantees the right to dignity of the human person and prohibits inhuman and degrading treatment.

Section 42, which guarantees freedom from discrimination, including on the basis of sex.

We are deeply alarmed that such coordinated acts of violence could occur in a communal setting, with perpetrators appearing emboldened and unchecked. The suggestion that women and girls were warned to remain indoors for their safety further underscores a dangerous normalization of violence and a failure of community protection systems.

Let it be made clear: There is no culture, tradition, or festival that justifies rape or any form of sexual violence. Any attempt to cloak such heinous crimes in cultural practice is a gross abuse of tradition and must be rejected by all.

HURPA therefore calls for the following urgent actions:

Immediate and thorough investigation into the incident by the Delta State Police Command, as directed by the Commissioner of Police.

Swift arrest and prosecution of all individuals involved in these criminal acts, regardless of their status in the community.

Protection and support for victims, including access to medical care, psychological support, and legal assistance.

Public identification and abolition of any harmful traditional practices that enable or encourage gender-based violence.

Increased security presence and monitoring during community festivals to prevent recurrence.

We commend the Delta State Police Command for describing the incident as “alarming, disgusting, and embarrassing,” and urge that these words be matched with decisive and transparent action.

HURPA stands in solidarity with the victims and all women and girls in Ozoro and beyond. We reaffirm our commitment to advocating for justice, accountability, and the protection of human rights across all communities.

Silence in the face of such evil is complicity. We call on community leaders, traditional rulers, youth groups, and all well-meaning Nigerians to rise against this atrocity and ensure that justice is served.

Human Rights Pathfinders Association (HURPA)Advocating for Justice, Protecting Human Dignity