“Not Culture, But Crime”: BPW Nigeria Condemns Delta Festival Assaults, Demands Justice and Sanctions for Complicit Authorities

“Not Culture, But Crime”: BPW Nigeria Condemns Delta Festival Assaults, Demands Justice and Sanctions for Complicit Authorities

Abuja, 21 March 2026 – The Nigeria Federation of Business and Professional Women (BPW Nigeria) has strongly condemned the violent assaults on women during a recent festival in Delta State, describing the incident as a shocking display of gender-based violence disguised as culture.

According to multiple media reports, including Punch Newspapers, women were forcefully assaulted, stripped, and publicly violated in broad daylight during the event.

BPW Nigeria stated unequivocally that such actions have no place in any cultural practice, stressing that what occurred was not tradition but criminality of the highest order.

While acknowledging the swift arrests made by the Delta State Police Command, the organisation emphasised that justice must go beyond initial law enforcement action. It called for a thorough investigation and transparent prosecution to ensure that all those responsible are held accountable.

The organisation noted that the incident violates Section 34 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, which guarantees the right to human dignity, as well as the Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Act 2015 and the Criminal Code Act. It further breaches Nigeria’s international obligations under CEDAW and the Maputo Protocol.

BPW Nigeria therefore demands:

The full and uncompromising prosecution of all perpetrators, including organisers, participants, and any enablers, under relevant laws.

A comprehensive investigation into the involvement of traditional authorities, with firm sanctions—including removal from office—where culpability, negligence, or complicity is established.

The enforcement of strict regulatory measures for cultural festivals to ensure compliance with human rights and public safety standards.

Immediate and sustained support for victims, including medical care, psychosocial services, legal aid, and protection for witnesses.

BPW Nigeria called on the Federal Government and the Delta State Government to act decisively in enforcing the law and preventing a recurrence of such incidents. It also urged traditional rulers across the country to exercise responsible leadership and ensure that cultural platforms are never used to perpetrate abuse.

The organisation further called on civil society groups, professional bodies, and the media to sustain advocacy and public scrutiny until justice is fully served.

“This is not an isolated incident but a reflection of a broader challenge where the safety of women is still not guaranteed in many spaces. This must end,” the statement said.

BPW Nigeria reaffirmed its solidarity with the victims and pledged continued advocacy, mobilisation, and lawful interventions—including strategic litigation—to defend the dignity and safety of women across Nigeria.

An injury to one woman is an injury to all.

Signed:

Ojobo Ode Atuluku

National President

Nigeria Federation of Business and Professional Women (BPW Nigeria)

Contact:

Email: bpwnig@gmail.com

WhatsApp: 07031259444

Website: www.bpw-nig.org.ng⁠�