Youths Storm Lagos State House of Assembly Over Alleged Sexual Assault in Delta
Nigerian youths gathered at the Lagos State House of Assembly to protest and demand justice for the victims of an alleged sexual assault during a fertility festival in Orozo, Isoko North Local Council Area, Delta State. The demonstration, organized under the banner "End The Rape Culture," saw participants expressing horror after hearing and watching videos of girls screaming and begging for mercy during the incident.
Campaigners Highlight Rape Culture Concerns
Rhoda Robinson, Executive Director of Hacey Health Initiative and a campaigner for the initiative, emphasized that the incident was not just a story but a painful reality. She stated, "It's painful. I ask myself, what if it was me? This is a serious reminder that rape culture is still very real." Robinson questioned claims that rape culture no longer exists in Nigeria, pointing out that survivors are often silenced, blamed, and denied justice daily.
She highlighted statistics showing a significant number of girls and women in Nigeria experience sexual violence, with most cases going unreported due to fear, shame, and stigma. Even when reported, justice is rarely served. Robinson cited the tragic case of Ochanya, a child who was raped for years by her uncle and cousin until she died from complications of Vesico Vaginal fistula (VVF) and trauma, stressing that such stories are not isolated.
Calls for Systemic Change
Robinson added, "This is the harsh reality: Victims are blamed, families silence survivors, and systems fail to protect. Women and girls are still oppressed, and this is unacceptable. We need stronger protection, laws that actually work, and real justice, not selective justice. No girl deserves to suffer in silence."
Delta Police Response
Meanwhile, Delta State Commissioner of Police, Aina Adesola, led members of the command's top management team, including the Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of Operations, DCP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, and other senior officers, to address the situation. The police have promised to investigate the allegations and ensure justice for the victims.
