The International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA) Nigeria has strongly condemned the reported cases of violence against women during the recent Ozoro Festival in Delta State, describing the incident as a “brazen disregard for human dignity.”
In a press statement issued by its Country Vice President, Eliana Martins, and National Publicity Secretary, Chineze Obianyo, the organisation said the development was unacceptable and must not be overlooked.
“This brazen disregard for human dignity is unacceptable and cannot be ignored,” the statement read.
FIDA Nigeria stressed that the incident was not an isolated occurrence but rather a reflection of deeper systemic failures.
“What happened is not an isolated lapse — it is a glaring failure of protection, oversight, and a disregard for the dignity of womanhood,” the group stated.
The organisation rejected any cultural justification for the alleged acts, insisting that such behaviour amounts to criminality.
“It is not culture or tradition, but plain criminal acts, and must be stopped,” FIDA Nigeria declared.
The group further emphasised that public spaces must remain safe for all, particularly women, noting that safety and dignity should never be compromised.
“Public spaces must never be arenas where the safety and dignity of women are negotiable,” it added.
FIDA Nigeria called for urgent and decisive action, demanding that perpetrators be identified and prosecuted without delay.
“Justice and accountability in this matter are not optional. Those responsible must be identified and made to face the full force of the law. Survivors must be protected, shielded, and cared for,” the statement said.
The organisation also urged authorities and stakeholders to examine systemic lapses that enabled the incident and take concrete steps to prevent a recurrence.
“Beyond punishing offenders, it is imperative to scrutinise the systemic gaps that allowed such acts to unfold and ensure they are decisively addressed,” it noted.
FIDA Nigeria further stressed the responsibility of festival organisers, community leaders, and relevant authorities to ensure effective preventive measures.
“Organisers, community leaders, and authorities share the responsibility to ensure that safeguards are not just on paper but effective in practice. Public confidence depends on visible, equitable, and decisive action,” the statement added.
Reiterating its stance, the group called for immediate intervention to serve as a deterrent to similar acts elsewhere.
“FIDA Nigeria demands immediate and prompt action. This must serve as a deterrent to other communities where heinous crimes are perpetrated under the guise of culture and tradition,” it said.
The organisation maintained that Nigerian laws do not recognise cultural practices that violate fundamental human rights.
“Our laws abhor any culture or tradition that is repugnant to natural justice, equity, and good conscience. We will not stay silent. We will not accept excuses. Justice must be served — now,” the statement concluded.
