“Not Culture, But Crime”: Outrage As Group Petitions Oborevwori Over Ozoro Incident

Women Group Demands Probe Over Ozoro Festival Assaults

Petition Raises Alarm Over Alleged Abuse

THE Nigeria Federation of Business and Professional Women has called on Sheriff Oborevwori to institute an independent panel of inquiry into violent assaults on women during a recent festival in Ozoro, Delta State.

The petition follows widespread outrage triggered by a viral video showing a young woman being physically assaulted by a crowd of men during the event held in Ozoro community, Isoko North Local Government Area.

In a strongly worded open letter dated 21 March and signed by its National President, Ojobo Atuluku, the organisation described the incident as a grave violation of human dignity.

“This Is Not Culture, It Is Crime”

The group rejected claims that the incident was rooted in tradition, insisting that no cultural practice can justify violence against women.

“What happened to women at the festival was not culture—it was criminality,” the petition stated.

It added that the acts of stripping and assaulting women in public constituted clear breaches of Nigerian law and international human rights standards.

The organisation cited Section 34(1) of the Constitution, which guarantees the right to dignity, alongside provisions of the Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Act and the Criminal Code.

It also referenced Nigeria’s obligations under global treaties, including the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW) and the Maputo Protocol.

Concerns Over Traditional Authority

A key concern raised in the petition is the alleged failure of traditional institutions to prevent the violence.

The group argued that traditional rulers must be held accountable where such incidents occur under their watch.

“Traditional leaders are custodians of their communities and must ensure safety and order,” the group said.

It urged the governor to invoke relevant chieftaincy laws where necessary to ensure accountability.

Call for Independent Inquiry and Reforms

Among its major demands, the organisation called for:

• The establishment of an independent panel of inquiry

• Suspension of traditional office holders pending investigation

• Prosecution of perpetrators and enablers

• A review of safety standards at cultural festivals

It also emphasised the need for victim support, including access to medical care, psychosocial services, and legal protection.

Police Action and Government Response

Authorities have begun taking steps in response to the incident. The Delta State Police Command confirmed the arrest of 15 suspects linked to the assaults.

The Federal Government has also pledged to collaborate with the state government to provide support for victims and ensure justice is served.

A Broader National Concern

The group stressed that the issue extends beyond a single community.

“This is about whether Nigerian women can feel safe in public spaces and trust the system to protect them,” the petition noted.

It pledged continued advocacy and legal action if necessary to ensure accountability and long-term reforms.