Alue-Do festival assault: First Lady urges victims to seek medical, psychological help

First Lady Oluremi Tinubu has urged victims of the alleged assault during the Alue-Do Festival in Ozoro, Delta State, to immediately seek both medical and psychological support, following what she described as a “horrific” and deeply disturbing incident.

In a statement on Sunday, Senator Tinubu reacted to viral footage from Ozoro in Isoko North Local Government Area, which showed girls being physically and sexually assaulted and subjected to degrading treatment during the community festival.

Addressing the victims directly, the First Lady said: “I urge you to seek the relevant medical and psychological help,” while offering prayers for their healing, peace, and strength in the aftermath of the incident.

She expressed outrage over the development, stressing that no cultural practice or tradition should be used to justify violence against women and girls.

“Whilst I hold deep respect for the diverse rich cultures and traditions that make us who we are as a people, I believe that no such tradition or custom grants any man the right to violate the dignity or freedom of a woman or girl,” she stated.

The First Lady described the acts captured in the viral videos as “degrading and barbaric,” noting that the incident has sparked widespread concern across the country.

She, however, commended the Nigeria Police Force for what she described as swift action, particularly the arrests already made in connection with the assault.

The First Lady further urged law enforcement agencies and other relevant authorities to ensure that all those involved are brought to justice without delay.

“I commend the Nigeria Police Force for the arrests already made and urge all relevant authorities to ensure that all perpetrators face the full weight of the law,” she added.

The incident, which reportedly occurred during the traditional Alue-Do Festival in Ozoro, has drawn condemnation from various quarters, with calls for stricter safeguards to protect women and girls during public and cultural events.