Women in Management, Business and Public Service has condemned the recent sexual assault of women and girls during a festival in Ozoro, describing the incident as unacceptable and indicative of deeper societal problems.
Report stated that the organisation said the attacks underscore the urgent need to safeguard the safety, dignity, and rights of women at all times.
It stated, “WIMBIZ strongly condemns the recent violent attacks on women and girls in Delta State during the Ozoro festival. These acts of gender-based violence and sexual assault are unacceptable and highlight the urgent need to protect the safety, dignity, and rights of women at all times.”
The group stressed that the incident is not an isolated case, noting that it reflects wider cultural and structural issues across communities nationwide.
“This incident is not isolated, it reflects broader cultural and structural challenges across communities nationwide. Ending violence against women requires collective responsibility,” the statement read.
WIMBIZ called on the government, community leaders, law enforcement agencies, and civil society organisations to collaborate to ensure women can live and participate freely without fear of violence.
The organisation also supported calls for the arrest and prosecution of those responsible, while emphasising the need for continuous advocacy and monitoring.
“We acknowledge the government’s call for the swift arrest and prosecution of all perpetrators, and WIMBIZ will continue to monitor developments and advocate for justice and accountability,” it said.
Beyond immediate justice, WIMBIZ highlighted the importance of long-term legal and structural reforms, particularly the passage of the Gender and Equal Opportunities Bill by the National Assembly.
“Beyond punishment, this moment highlights the urgent need for long-term, structural measures to prevent gender-based violence, including the passage of the Gender and Equal Opportunities Bill by the National Assembly.
“Legal frameworks like these are critical to institutionalise protections, define penalties, and shift societal norms toward zero tolerance for gender-based violence,” the statement added.
The organisation further warned against using cultural or social practices as justification for abuse.
“Cultural or social settings must never become grounds for abuse, and decisive action with zero tolerance for violence must be the standard,” it stated.
WIMBIZ reaffirmed its support for victims, pledging continued advocacy for justice and systemic change.
“WIMBIZ stands in solidarity with all affected women and girls. We will continue to advocate relentlessly for justice, accountability, and systemic change,” the statement concluded.
Reported stated that the incident occurred on March 19 during an annual festival in Ozoro, where viral videos showed groups of men assaulting women in public.
The development triggered widespread outrage and renewed concerns over cultural practices that may enable violence against women.
