NAPTIP SAYS LACK OF DELTA OFFICE HINDERED AWARENESS OF OZORO FESTIVAL ASSAULTS
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By Aishat Momoh. O.
The National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) has stated that it was unaware of the alleged sexual assaults at a festival in Ozoro, Delta State, due to the absence of an operational office in the state.
The agency made this known on Saturday while responding to concerns raised on social media over its apparent silence on the issue.
A Facebook user, identified as Chukwunenye Nweke, had questioned why NAPTIP was not aware of what he described as a long-standing cultural practice. In response, the agency explained that it does not currently have a command in Delta State and cannot be present everywhere at all times.
“As you know, we cannot be everywhere at all times. Currently, we do not have a command yet in Delta State. Fighting this menace needs an approach from all of society,” NAPTIP said, urging citizens to report suspicious activities and raise awareness about human trafficking and gender-based violence.
The agency had earlier condemned the alleged assaults, describing them as serious violations of human rights and a form of gender-based violence. It also commended the Nigeria Police Force in Delta State for its swift response, including the arrest of suspects such as the event organiser and a community leader.
NAPTIP reiterated its commitment to supporting efforts aimed at ensuring justice for victims and preventing future occurrences.
The incident, which reportedly occurred on March 19 during an annual festival in Ozoro, drew widespread outrage after viral videos showed groups of men attacking women in public, forcibly tearing their clothes, and subjecting them to various forms of molestation.
While some accounts alleged that certain victims may have been raped, these claims have not been officially confirmed.
Local sources indicated that the festival traditionally requires women to remain indoors, with those found outside allegedly targeted for harassment. The development has since sparked renewed debate over cultural practices that may encourage or tolerate violence against women.
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