By Joshua Tosin Ogunsakin 
The National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons on Saturday said it was unaware of the alleged sexual assaults at a festival in Ozoro, Delta State, because it has no operational office in the state.
The agency stressed that combating human trafficking and gender-based violence requires the active participation of all sectors of society.
A Facebook user identified as Chukwunenye Nweke had asked why the agency was not aware of the age-long culture.
“Did the festival start this month that NAPTIP Nigeria did not know about it before now?
“Well, since the evil and criminal act is tagged as tradition, I believe it has passed many generations. What were you doing since then?” Nweke had asked NAPTIP.
Responding to the question from the Facebook user, NAPTIP said, “As you know, we cannot be everywhere at all times. Currently, we do not have a command yet in the Delta State. Fighting this menace needs an approach from all of society.
“If you see something, say something. Going forward, we implore you to use your page and try to spread the information on the ills and dangers of Human Trafficking and Sexual and Gender-based violence.”
The agency had earlier strongly condemned the alleged assaults, describing the acts as violations of human rights and dignity and a form of gender-based violence.
“We commend the Nigeria Police Force in Delta State for their swift response and arrests of suspects, including the organizer and the community head.
“NAPTIP shall continue to support all actions aimed at ensuring justice for the victims as well as preventing the recurrence of such crimes in the future,” it said.
PUNCH Online had reported that the incident occurred on Thursday, March 19, during an annual festival in Ozoro.
Viral videos circulating on social media showed groups of men attacking women in public, forcefully tearing their clothes, and subjecting them to various forms of molestation.
Some accounts further allege that certain victims may have been raped, though these claims have not been officially verified.
According to local sources, the festival reportedly includes an expectation that women remain indoors during the event, with those found outside allegedly becoming targets for harassment.
The disturbing footage has sparked widespread outrage, prompting debates about cultural practices that may perpetuate violence against women.
The Punch