- The statement came in response to a Facebook user, Chukwunenye Nweke, who questioned why NAPTIP had not intervened
- NAPTIP replied, acknowledging the limitation, saying, “As you know, we cannot be everywhere at all times
- The agency had earlier condemned the alleged assaults, describing them as violations of human rights
The National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) stated on Saturday that it was unaware of the reported sexual assaults at a festival in Ozoro, Delta State, citing the absence of an operational office in the state.
Eko Hot Blog gathered that the agency emphasized that addressing human trafficking and gender-based violence requires active involvement from all members of society.
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The statement came in response to a Facebook user, Chukwunenye Nweke, who questioned why NAPTIP had not intervene, noting that the festival and its practices have reportedly existed for generations.
Nweke wrote: “Did the festival start this month that NAPTIP did not know about it before now? Since this practice has been around for many generations, what was being done to prevent it?”
NAPTIP replied, acknowledging the limitation, saying, “As you know, we cannot be everywhere at all times. Currently, we do not have a command in Delta State. Combating this menace requires society-wide action.
If you witness something, report it. We encourage the public to use social media and other platforms to highlight the dangers of human trafficking and sexual and gender-based violence.”
The agency had earlier condemned the alleged assaults, describing them as violations of human rights and a form of gender-based violence.
It also commended the Nigeria Police Force in Delta State for their swift intervention, including the arrests of the festival organizer and the community head. NAPTIP reaffirmed its commitment to supporting efforts to bring justice to victims and prevent future incidents.
The incident reportedly occurred on Thursday, March 19, during an annual festival in Ozoro.
Viral videos circulating online showed groups of men attacking women, forcibly removing their clothing, and subjecting them to various forms of molestation. Some reports suggest possible cases of rape, although these claims have not been independently confirmed.
According to local accounts, the festival allegedly includes an expectation that women remain indoors, with those who venture outside becoming targets of harassment.
The videos and reports have sparked national outrage and reignited debates over cultural practices that may enable violence against women.
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