The Nigeria Federation of Business and Professional Women (BPW Nigeria) has called for a full-scale investigation and swift prosecution of those responsible for the reported assault on women during a festival in Delta State, describing the incident as a grave violation of human dignity and women’s rights.
In a strongly worded statement issued from Abuja, the organisation condemned the violence, insisting that such acts must not be trivialised under the guise of culture or tradition.
BPW Nigeria said the disturbing reports emerging from the festival point to a pattern of abuse that demands urgent institutional response. It stressed that protecting women from violence is not optional but a legal and moral obligation for authorities at all levels.
“The assault on women in any form, whether physical, psychological, or cultural, is unacceptable and must be met with decisive action,” the group stated.
The organisation called on law enforcement agencies to immediately launch a transparent and thorough investigation into the incident, identify perpetrators, and ensure they are brought to justice without delay. It also urged traditional authorities and community leaders to take responsibility for safeguarding the rights and dignity of women during cultural events.
Beyond prosecution, BPW Nigeria emphasised the need for broader reforms, including stricter oversight of festival practices, public sensitisation, and stronger enforcement of laws protecting women against gender-based violence.
The group warned that failure to act decisively could embolden perpetrators and perpetuate a culture of impunity.
Reaffirming its commitment to advocacy, BPW Nigeria said it would continue to push for accountability and justice, while supporting efforts aimed at ensuring that cultural expressions do not become avenues for abuse.
The incident has since sparked widespread concern, with calls growing louder for both justice for victims and a re-examination of practices that put women at risk under the cover of tradition.