The Founder of Women Empowerment and Legal Aid (WELA), Funmi Falana, SAN has called on authorities concern to give regular updates and account on steps being taking on the alleged acts of sexual violence reportedly occured in Ozoro, Delta State.
In a statement made available to Freedomonline.com.ng, the senior lawyer said, there is so much silence regarding what is being done to address the situation and punish the offenders who perpatrared the ugly incident that happened in Ozoro recently, stating that the matter should not be swept under the carpet in whatever form.
Condemning the alleged acts of sexual violence which reportedly took place in Ozoro, Falana described it as a gross violation of human rights and calling for the immediate abolition of what has been termed a “raping festival.”
In a statement, the senior advocate expressed outrage over viral videos and accounts suggesting that the event, said to be held in Ozoro, Isoko North Local Government Area, has become a platform for molestation, sexual assault, and rape of women and girls.
Falana stated that such acts cannot be justified under the guise of culture or tradition, stressing that rape remains a criminal offence under Nigerian law and a crime against humanity.
“This is not a celebration of culture; it is violence. It must be abolished without delay,” she said.
The WELA founder called on the Delta State Commissioner of Police to launch an immediate investigation into the allegations, apprehend all perpetrators, and ensure that both participants and organisers are prosecuted in accordance with the law.
She also urged the Ministry of Women Affairs to take decisive steps to protect women and children by ensuring the alleged event is permanently banned.
Falana further appealed to advocacy groups, including the International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA) and the Nigerian Bar Association Women Forum, Delta State Chapter, to intensify efforts in speaking out against gender-based violence and pushing for accountability.
Describing the situation as alarming, she noted concerns that such acts may be occurring in a communal setting with a level of acceptance or silence that enables their continuation.
The statement called for urgent action from key institutions, including the Delta State Government, the Nigeria Police Force, the National Human Rights Commission, and relevant ministries, to investigate the incidents, ensure the safety of women and girls, and provide medical, legal, and psychological support for survivors.
Falana also urged members of the public not to normalise or excuse violence as culture, but to speak up and support victims.
“The dignity, safety, and bodily autonomy of women are non-negotiable. Any society that permits violence against women under any guise must be held accountable,” she said.
She concluded with a call for justice and protection for all affected persons, insisting that decisive action must be taken to end what she described as a dangerous and inhumane practice.
