ADC Condemns Sexual Assault on Ozoro Women in Delta State
The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has issued a strong condemnation of the sexual attacks on women in Ozoro, Delta State, describing the incidents as an unacceptable violation of their integrity and fundamental rights. This statement comes in response to disturbing videos that have been circulating on social media for several days, showing youths assaulting female students during a traditional festival in the community.
Horrifying Videos Spark Widespread Outrage
The videos, which depict the controversial 'Alue-Do' festival held on Thursday in Ozoro, the headquarters of Isoko North Local Government Area, reveal young women being chased, stripped, and molested in broad daylight. One widely shared clip shows a young lady seated on a motorcycle being dragged to the ground by a group of youths, who then assaulted her and tore her clothes. These actions have provoked widespread condemnation across Nigeria, with many expressing shock and anger at the blatant disregard for women's safety and dignity.
In a statement released by the National Publicity Secretary of the ADC, Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi, the party emphasized that the circulating videos from Ozoro are horrifying. "It is even more disturbing given that this occurred in a community with a university and several schools, where young women and girls should feel safe," Abdullahi stated. The ADC has called for zero impunity in this case, urging law enforcement agencies to conduct a thorough investigation and ensure that all perpetrators are brought to justice.
Community Defense and Political Criticism
Despite the outcry, some residents have defended the actions, claiming that the festival is a fertility rite intended to invoke blessings for couples experiencing difficulties with childbirth and that it is a periodic event in the community. However, the ADC has dismissed such justifications, insisting that no tradition should excuse sexual violence.
The party has also criticized the Governor of Delta State for not speaking directly on the matter, instead choosing to communicate through aides. "Silence at a time like this is a failure of moral leadership," the ADC asserted, highlighting the need for immediate and decisive action from state authorities. They have called on the police to be thorough in their investigation and to make an example of this case to deter future occurrences.
"We call on the police to be thorough and make an example of this case. Every single man that participated in the sexual harassment and assault of the women of Ozoro must be identified and prosecuted," the statement added. The ADC's condemnation underscores a growing demand for accountability and protection of women's rights in Nigeria, particularly in the face of such egregious violations during cultural events.
