ActionAid Nigeria Condemns Violence Against Women at Delta Cultural Festival
ActionAid Nigeria has strongly condemned reported incidents of violence against women and girls during a recent cultural festival in Ozoro, Delta State. The organisation described the events as a severe violation of safety and dignity, highlighting video evidence circulating on social media that shows women and girls being harassed, chased, and assaulted in public spaces.
Rejection of Cultural Justifications
In a statement signed by Country Director Andrew Mamedu, ActionAid Nigeria rejected attempts to downplay the incidents or interpret them as part of cultural practices. The organisation stressed that violence against women and girls must not be trivialised or justified under any circumstances, emphasising that no cultural festival or traditional belief should excuse or conceal such abuses.
Systemic Issues and Calls for Action
According to ActionAid Nigeria, the incident reflects deeper systemic issues of gender-based violence, where harmful norms, silence, and weak enforcement enable abuses to persist. The group called for all individuals involved to be identified and prosecuted through a transparent process, urging Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori to take immediate action.
Demands for Accountability and Support
ActionAid Nigeria demanded accountability from security agencies over alleged lapses that allowed the incidents to occur without timely intervention, noting that their mandate should include proactive measures to prevent harm. The organisation also appealed to the Federal Ministry of Women Affairs and the Delta State Ministry of Women Affairs to provide coordinated, survivor-centred support for affected women and girls, including access to medical care, psychosocial services, legal assistance, and safe reporting channels.
Commitment to Women's Rights
The organisation emphasised the need for sustained efforts to address gaps in safeguarding women and girls in public and cultural spaces, urging authorities and community leaders in Ozoro Kingdom to review practices that may endanger women. ActionAid Nigeria reaffirmed its commitment to promoting the rights, safety, and dignity of women and girls, expressing solidarity with those affected by the incident.
