First Lady condemns assault of young women during festival in Delta
Oluremi Tinubu, Nigeria’s first lady, has condemned the assault on women and girls during Alue-Do festival in Ozoro, Isoko north LGA, Delta state.
On Thursday, videos circulated on social media showing men ripping the clothes of young women and groping them during the festival.
Following the incident, the police command in Delta said its operatives had arrested Omorede Sunday, a community leader, and four other suspects over allegations of rape and assault.
On Saturday, the command said it had arrested 11 more suspects over the incident.
Reacting to the incident in a statement posted on her X page on Sunday, the president’s wife said she “watched the horrific viral footage emerging from Ozoro, Isoko North Local Government Area of Delta State, showing girls physically and sexually assaulted, subjected to degrading and barbaric treatment during what was supposed to be a community festival”.
The first lady added that she “respects the diverse, rich cultures and traditions that make Nigerians who they are as a people”, but “believes that no such tradition or custom grants any man the right to violate the dignity or freedom of any woman or girl.”
“I commend the Nigeria Police Force for the arrests already made and urge all relevant authorities to ensure that all perpetrators face the full weight of the law,” she added.
“To the victims of this unfortunate incident, I urge you to seek the relevant medical and psychological help.
“I pray for your healing, peace and strength at this difficult time.”
