The First Lady, Sen. Oluremi Tinubu, has condemned reported harassment and sexual assault of women and girls during the Alue-do festival in Ozoro, Delta.
In a statement by her Senior Special Assistant on Media, Busola Kukoyi, on Sunday in Abuja, Tinubu described the acts as barbaric and unacceptable.
“I watched the horrific viral footage emerging from Ozoro, Isoko North Local Government Area of Delta State.
“This footage showed girls are physically and sexually assaulted, subjected to degrading and barbaric treatment during what was supposed to be a community festival.
“While I hold deep respect for the diverse and rich cultures and traditions that make us who we are as a people, I believe that no tradition or custom grants any man the right to violate the dignity or freedom of a 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 said.
The First Lady also consoled the victims and urged them to seek medical and psychological support.
“I pray for your healing, peace and strength at this difficult time,” she said.
Newspotng reports that the Delta Commissioner for Works (Rural Roads) and Public Information, Charles Aniagwu, also condemned the incident.
Aniagwu called on security agencies to investigate the incident and ensure that those responsible were brought to justice.
