NAPTIP explains delay in detecting ‘rape festival’ in Delta

The National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) has explained that it was unaware of the alleged sexual assaults linked to a festival in Ozoro, Delta State, citing the absence of an operational office in the state.

The agency made this clarification on Saturday while responding to public concerns over its apparent lack of prior knowledge of the incident.

Reacting to a query raised on Facebook by a user, Chukwunenye Nweke, who questioned why the agency had not acted earlier if the practice had existed for years, NAPTIP said its operations are limited by its presence across states.

“As you know, we cannot be everywhere at all times. Currently, we do not have a command yet in Delta State. Fighting this menace requires a whole-of-society approach,” the agency stated.

It further urged members of the public to play an active role by reporting suspicious activities and raising awareness about human trafficking and gender-based violence.

“If you see something, say something. Going forward, we implore you to use your platforms to spread information on the dangers of human trafficking and sexual and gender-based violence,” it added.

NAPTIP had earlier condemned the reported assaults, describing them as serious violations of human rights and dignity, as well as acts of gender-based violence.

The agency also commended the Nigeria Police Force in Delta State for swiftly responding to the situation and arresting suspects, including the alleged organiser and a community leader. It pledged continued support for efforts aimed at securing justice for victims and preventing a recurrence.

The incident, which reportedly occurred on Thursday, March 19, during an annual festival in Ozoro, gained widespread attention after disturbing videos surfaced online. The footage showed groups of men attacking women in public, tearing their clothes, and subjecting them to various forms of harassment.

While some reports claim that certain victims may have been raped, these allegations have yet to be officially confirmed.

Local sources alleged that the festival traditionally requires women to remain indoors, with those found outside reportedly exposed to harassment.

The videos have since triggered widespread outrage and renewed debate over cultural practices that may enable violence against women.