AkweyaTV News Desk
The Council of Traditional Leaders of Africa (COTLA) has strongly condemned reports of sexual violence against women and girls allegedly linked to a cultural festival in Ozoro, Delta State, describing the incident as a grave violation of human rights and community values.
In a press statement, COTLA emphasised that no cultural practice or tradition should be used to justify violence, stressing that such acts undermine the moral authority of traditional institutions across Africa.
The council expressed particular concern that the incident comes barely a month after African traditional and community leaders reaffirmed their commitment to protecting women and girls during the Conference of African Traditional and Community Leaders held in Lagos in February 2026.
“Traditional institutions must stand as custodians of dignity, not enablers of abuse,” the statement noted, calling for decisive action against all individuals involved in the alleged crimes.
COTLA acknowledged reports that suspects have been arrested by the Nigeria Police Force and urged authorities to ensure that investigations are thorough, transparent, and expedited to guarantee justice for victims.
The council also commended the response of local traditional leadership in Ozoro for cooperating with law enforcement and supporting efforts to hold event organisers accountable. It described this collaboration as critical in addressing harmful practices within communities.
Beyond accountability, COTLA called for immediate and comprehensive support for survivors, including access to medical care, psychosocial services, and legal assistance. It stressed that survivors must be treated with dignity, confidentiality, and respect.
The statement further revealed that the cultural event in question had previously been abolished, describing its reported re-enactment as an “aberration.” COTLA urged traditional institutions in Ozoro to impose an immediate and permanent ban on the festival and to work with authorities to prevent any future revival.
In a broader appeal, the council called on traditional leaders across Nigeria and the African continent to proactively identify and eliminate cultural practices that violate the rights of women and girls.
“Protecting women and girls is a collective responsibility that requires sustained leadership, accountability, and action,” the statement concluded.
The statement was signed by Haliru N. Yahaya, Emir of Shonga and Convener General of COTLA.
