Renowned Nigerian human rights lawyer Ifeanyi Ejiofor has strongly condemned alleged incidents of sexual violence linked to a festival in Ozoro, describing the reports as a grave affront to human dignity and justice.
In a statement, Ejiofor criticised what he called a disturbing attempt to cloak criminal acts under the guise of tradition.
He said it was deeply regrettable that any cultural event could allegedly provide a cover for actions tantamount to mass sexual assault.
According to him, culture in its truest sense should uplift and protect society—not degrade or brutalise it.
The human rights lawyer stressed that no tradition, regardless of its history, can justify acts that violate fundamental human rights.
Ejiofor expressed concern that in the 21st century—an era defined by advancing human rights and civilisation—such allegations could still emerge.
He described the reported incident as not only shocking but a serious indictment of societal values and governance.
While questioning whether the community operates within the constitutional framework of Delta State and called on authorities to act decisively, Ejiofor warned that failure to intervene could suggest complicity through silence or inaction.
Sexual violence not tradition
“Rape is not culture; it is a crime. Sexual violence is not tradition; it is an atrocity,” he declared, rejecting any attempt to legitimise such acts under cultural narratives.
Ejiofor called for an immediate, thorough, and transparent investigation into the allegations, urging law enforcement agencies to identify and prosecute all those involved, including organisers and enablers.
He emphasised that justice must not only be done but must be seen to be done, adding that any society that tolerates violence against women under any pretext undermines its moral foundation and claim to civilisation.
The human rights lawyer concluded by urging authorities to draw a clear line between culture and criminality, insisting that traditions that offend justice and human dignity must be firmly rejected.
