Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has strongly condemned the assault of women during a cultural festival in Ozoro, Delta state, describing the incident as a national disgrace and calling for the prosecution of those involved.
Gatekeepers News reports that fhe outrage followed the circulation of disturbing videos on X showing groups of men attacking young women, tearing their clothes, and subjecting them to harassment during the event. The clips triggered widespread condemnation across the country.
Delta State government also reacted, condemning the acts as barbaric, heinous and unacceptable, and stressing that no cultural celebration should serve as a cover for criminal behaviour.
Police authorities confirmed the arrest of Omorede Sunday, identified as a community leader, alongside four other suspects over allegations linked to assault and sexual violence. Investigations are ongoing.
In a joint statement by Afam Osigwe and Huwaila Muhammad, chairperson of the NBA Women Forum, the association said the incident reflects a breakdown of law and societal values.
“A society reveals its true character in how it treats its women,” the statement read.
“Where women are chased, stripped, assaulted, and publicly humiliated under the guise of celebration, what is on display is not culture. It is barbarity.
“This was not a festival. This was lawlessness. This was gender-based violence in its most primitive and shameful form.”
NBA noted that such actions violate fundamental human rights, including the right to dignity and personal security, as enshrined in the Nigerian constitution. It added that the offences amount to crimes such as assault, sexual violence, and public indecency.
The association urged Delta State government and security agencies to ensure that all perpetrators and accomplices are identified and brought to justice without delay, warning that failure to act decisively could encourage further abuse.
It also called on community leaders, traditional institutions, and festival organisers to take responsibility and ensure that cultural events are conducted in a safe and respectful manner.
“The protection of women is not optional. It is a legal duty. It is a moral obligation,” the NBA stated, warning that such incidents must never be allowed to happen again.
