Nigeria’s First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, has strongly condemned the assault of women and girls during the Alue-Do festival held in Ozoro, Isoko North Local Government Area of Delta State, describing the incident as horrific and unacceptable.
The condemnation followed the circulation of disturbing videos on social media last Thursday. The footage showed groups of men forcefully ripping the clothes of young women and groping them in public during what was meant to be a cultural celebration. The images sparked outrage across the country, with many Nigerians expressing anger and disbelief over the treatment of the victims.
In response to the incident, the Nigeria Police Force in Delta State confirmed that arrests had been made. The police command announced that Omorede Sunday, identified as a community leader, along with four other suspects, had initially been apprehended over allegations of rape and assault linked to the festival.
By Saturday, the police disclosed that 11 additional suspects had been arrested in connection with the incident, bringing the total number of arrests to 16. Authorities said investigations were ongoing and assured the public that those responsible would be held accountable.
Reacting publicly for the first time, the First Lady shared her thoughts in a statement posted on her X (formerly Twitter) page on Sunday. She said she had watched the viral footage from Ozoro and was deeply disturbed by what she described as degrading and barbaric acts committed against girls during what was supposed to be a community celebration.
“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,” she wrote.
Mrs. Tinubu acknowledged Nigeria’s rich cultural diversity and traditions, emphasising that the country’s heritage is an important part of its identity. However, she made it clear that no cultural practice or traditional event should ever serve as justification for abuse or violation of women and girls.
“I respect the diverse, rich cultures and traditions that make Nigerians who they are as a people,” she said. “But I believe that no such tradition or custom grants any man the right to violate the dignity or freedom of any woman or girl.”
Her remarks reflect growing national concern over gender-based violence and the need for stronger safeguards during public gatherings. Many commentators have argued that festivals and cultural events must be spaces of joy and unity—not fear or humiliation.
The First Lady also commended the swift action taken by the police in Delta State, praising the arrests already made. She urged law enforcement agencies and relevant authorities to ensure that the investigation is thorough and that justice is served.
“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 stated.
Beyond the legal response, Mrs. Tinubu extended her sympathy to the victims, encouraging them to seek medical and psychological support. Incidents of sexual and physical assault often leave lasting emotional trauma, and experts frequently stress the importance of early professional care to aid recovery.
“To the victims of this unfortunate incident, I urge you to seek the relevant medical and psychological help,” she said. “I pray for your healing, peace and strength at this difficult time.”
The Alue-Do festival, traditionally celebrated in parts of Isoko land, is meant to promote unity, cultural pride, and communal bonding. However, this year’s event has instead triggered nationwide outrage and renewed conversations about women’s safety in public spaces.
Civil society groups and women’s rights advocates have also condemned the incident, calling for sustained efforts to prevent similar occurrences in the future. Some have demanded stricter security arrangements at public events, while others have emphasised the need for community education on respect, consent, and the protection of human dignity.
As investigations continue, many Nigerians will be watching closely to see how the case is handled and whether those responsible are prosecuted. For now, the incident serves as a sobering reminder that safeguarding women and girls must remain a priority at every level of society.
What should have been a celebration of culture has instead become a painful episode. But with firm action from authorities and sustained public attention, many hope it will also become a turning point—one that reinforces the message that violence against women has no place in any tradition, festival, or community.
