By Our Reporter
Federal Government has ordered the arrest and prosecution of perpetrators of alleged sexual assault linked to a local festival in Ozoro community, Delta State.
Minister of Women Affairs and Social Development, Hajiya Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, gave the directive in a statement signed by the ministry’s Head, Press and Public Relations, Ahmed Danbazau on Friday in Abuja.
The minister gave the directive after a video went viral on social media on Thursday alleging incidences of sexual assaults during the Alue-Do-Festival, regarded as "Festival of Fertility" in Ozoro Kingdom.
Sulaiman-Ibrahim expressed deep concern over reports that women were subjected to sexual assault and harassment during activities in Isoko North Local Government Area.
The minister, while commending the swift response of the Police Command in Delta, called for "a transparent, thorough, and accelerated investigation to ensure that all persons implicated are identified and brought to justice without delay."
Sulaiman-Ibrahim described the incidents as disturbing, unacceptable and contrary to human dignity, public safety and the rule of law, noting that the Constitution and the Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Act (VAPP Act) provide clear protections against such offences.
"No cultural or traditional practice can justify or excuse sexual violence in any form.
"Sexual assault is a serious criminal offence, and all allegations must be thoroughly investigated, with perpetrators held fully accountable under the law," the minister said.
The minister, while maintaining that sexual assault remained a serious criminal offence that must be thoroughly investigated, with all perpetrators brought to justice, reaffirmed government commitment to prioritise the safety, dignity and protection of women and girls.
Sulaiman-Ibrahim said her ministry would strengthen collaboration with the Delta State Ministry of Women Affairs to provide immediate support for victims, including psychosocial care, medical attention and legal assistance.
The minister added that efforts would be intensified to engage traditional leaders and community stakeholders to address harmful norms and prevent a recurrence, even as she further urged members of the public to cooperate with law enforcement authorities to ensure justice was served and future incidents were prevented from reoccurring.
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