The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has strongly condemned the harassment and assault of women during a recent festival in Ozoro, Delta State, describing the incident as a grave case of gender-based violence and a national embarrassment.
Viral videos from the event showed women being attacked and humiliated in public by groups of young men, while onlookers recorded and, in some cases, encouraged the acts.
In a statement issued on Saturday, NBA President Afam Osigwe (SAN) and Chairperson of the NBA Women’s Forum, Huwaila Muhammad, denounced the incident, stressing that such actions cannot be justified as cultural expression.
“What happened was not a festival but a breakdown of moral values and respect for human dignity,” the statement said, adding that no woman should be subjected to such treatment under any circumstance.
The association noted that the incident constitutes a serious violation of fundamental human rights, including the right to dignity, personal liberty, and security, as enshrined in Nigeria’s Constitution and international human rights laws.
The NBA called on the Delta State Government and relevant security agencies to promptly investigate the incident and ensure that all those involved are brought to justice. It also urged authorities to hold accountable not only the perpetrators but anyone who aided or failed to prevent the acts.
“Justice must be swift and impartial. Any delay or silence will only encourage further abuse,” the association warned.
Additionally, the NBA urged community leaders, traditional rulers, and festival organisers to take responsibility by ensuring that cultural events are conducted in a safe and respectful manner.
“The protection of women is both a legal and moral responsibility. Cultural celebrations must reflect order, dignity, and respect for human life,” the statement added.
The association concluded by stressing that such incidents must never be allowed to happen again in any part of the country.
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