Senator Oluremi Tinubu, the First Lady of Nigeria, has strongly condemned the sexual assault and molestation of women and girls during the Alue-Do Festival in Ozoro, Isoko North Local Government Area of Delta State.
In a personally signed statement released on Sunday, Mrs. Tinubu described the disturbing viral footage from the event—showing women being chased, stripped, and molested—as “horrific” and “barbaric.”
While acknowledging the importance of Nigeria’s diverse cultural heritage, the First Lady firmly asserted that tradition does not excuse gender-based violence.
“I 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 statement read.
“Whilst I hold deep respect for the diverse rich cultures and traditions that make us who we are as a people, I believe that no such tradition or custom grants any man the right to violate the dignity or freedom of any woman or girl.”
The First Lady commended the Nigeria Police Force for the swift arrest of suspects and called on the relevant authorities to ensure that all perpetrators are prosecuted to the full extent of the law. She also encouraged the victims to seek medical and psychological support, offering her prayers for their “healing, peace, and strength.”
The incident occurred on Thursday during the Alue-Do Festival, a traditional community event. Graphic videos shared online showed groups of young men pursuing women and female students in broad daylight, tearing their clothes and subjecting them to severe physical and sexual assaults. Reports indicated the violence was linked to a customary practice restricting women’s movement during certain hours.
Local leaders from the Ozoro Kingdom have since distanced themselves from the acts, stating that the violence does not reflect authentic cultural traditions and that the event was hijacked by criminal elements.
The Delta State Police Command has arrested 15 suspects so far, including a community head. Preliminary police investigations suggest the assaults were perpetrated by criminals exploiting the festival rather than being part of any legitimate cultural practice.