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Police detain suspects after viral videos show attacks on women
Nigerian authorities have arrested 15 individuals following allegations of sexual assault during a community festival in Delta state, sparking national outrage and calls for justice.
Viral footage triggers public outcry
Videos circulating on social media depict groups of young men chasing, stripping, and assaulting women in public spaces during the Alue-Do fertility festival in Ozoro. The clips, filmed by bystanders, prompted widespread condemnation and the trending hashtag #StopRapingWomen.
Delta state police spokesperson Bright Edafe described the scenes as "alarming, disgusting, and embarrassing," confirming that suspects identified in the footage have been transferred to the state Criminal Investigation Department (CID).
Conflicting accounts emerge over assault claims
Police stated that no formal rape complaints have been filed in connection with the festival. Edafe told Channels TV that four women interviewed by authorities denied being raped, though witnesses and activists argue that women were targeted and warned against attending parts of the event.
Rights groups emphasize that even if no rape occurred, the documented acts-including forced stripping and public humiliation-constitute serious gender-based violence under Nigerian law.
Traditional leaders deny festival condones assault
The King of Ozoro rejected claims that the Alue-Do festival endorses sexual violence, calling it a fertility rite "misinterpreted and abused by some youths." Traditional leaders acknowledged that two women were harassed but insisted such acts are criminal, not cultural.
The Delta state government echoed this stance, asserting that no recognized festival in the state permits sexual assault and that all violence should be treated as a crime.
National figures weigh in
Nigeria's First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, who has ties to Delta state, condemned the assaults in a statement, declaring that no culture justifies violating women and girls. She praised police for the arrests and urged victims to seek medical and psychological support.
"No culture justifies violating women and girls. Offenders must face the full weight of the law," Tinubu said.
Statement by Nigeria's First Lady
Investigation ongoing
Among those detained is a community leader identified as the event's organizer. Police confirmed that investigations are continuing, with authorities urging additional witnesses to come forward.
