Alue-Do Festival assault: Senator Tinubu urges victims to seek medical, psychological help
From Bolaji Ogundele, Abuja 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
From Bolaji Ogundele, Abuja
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.
Mrs. Tinubu’s advice comes on the heels of what she called a “horrific” and deeply disturbing incident in Delta State.
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In a statement yesterday in Abuja, Senator Tinubu expressed disapproval for the type of behaviour exhibited in a viral video footage of the incident that occurred at Ozoro in Isoko North Local Government Area. The video showed girls being physically and sexually assaulted and subjected to degrading treatment during the community’s festival.
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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, saying 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.
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The First Lady described the acts captured in the viral videos as “degrading and barbaric,” stressing that the incident has sparked widespread concern across the country.
Mrs. Tinubu praised the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) for what she called its swift action, particularly the arrests already made in connection with the assault.
The First Lady 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.
