UN envoy condemns alleged ‘rape festival’ in Nigeria, calls for arrests and probe

A West Africa Special Envoy under United Nations Security Council Resolution 2250 has strongly condemned what she described as a “barbaric” incident in Ozoro, Nigeria, calling for immediate arrests and international investigation into alleged abuses against women.

Zino Lexili Ogazi, in an official statement, expressed outrage over reports of a so-called “rape festival,” where women were allegedly subjected to sexual violence under the guise of cultural practice.

She questioned the legitimacy of any tradition that permits violence against women, stating that “culture is a crown, not a weapon,” and criticised local authorities in Ozoro for failing to prevent the alleged acts.

The envoy accused traditional leaders, including chiefs and elders, of complicity if they allowed such incidents to occur unchecked, describing the situation as a “crime against humanity.”

Calls for regional and global action

The envoy has formally called on the African Union and the Economic Community of West African States to investigate the incident as a potential violation of the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights.

She also urged the Nigerian diaspora to amplify the issue globally to ensure accountability and prevent it from being dismissed as a cultural matter.

Demand for justice

Ms. Ogazi said her office is closely monitoring developments in Delta State, warning that failure by authorities to prosecute perpetrators would undermine justice and accountability.

She outlined key demands to the Nigerian government, including the immediate abolition of any such practices, swift arrest and prosecution of individuals identified in circulating footage, and stronger protections for women’s rights.

“The time for condemnation is over,” she said, urging authorities to take decisive action to protect citizens and uphold the rule of law.

The Nigerian government is yet to officially respond to the statement.

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