The Nigerian Bar Association has condemned the alleged assault on women during a festival in Ozoro, calling for urgent action and insisting that justice must not be delayed.

Videos circulating on social media showed groups of young men dragging and allegedly molesting women on the streets, sparking widespread outrage.

In a statement signed by its President, Afam Osigwe (SAN), and Chairperson of its Women’s Forum, Huwaila Muhammad, the NBA described the reports as disturbing and unacceptable.

“A society reveals its true character in how it treats its women,” the statement said, adding that such acts cannot be justified as culture or tradition.

The association described the incident as lawlessness and “gender-based violence in its most primitive and shameful form,” noting that it violates fundamental human rights, including dignity, personal liberty, and security under Nigerian law.

The NBA called on authorities, including the Delta State Government and law enforcement agencies, to swiftly identify and prosecute those responsible.

“The perpetrators must be arrested and prosecuted. Those who aided, enabled, or failed to intervene must also be held accountable,” the statement added, warning that silence or excuses would only encourage further abuse.

The association also urged community leaders and festival organisers to take responsibility, stressing that cultural events must not become theatres of violence.

Meanwhile, the Nigeria Police Force confirmed the arrest of five suspects from Ozoro’s Oramudu Quarters, including the community head and event organiser, Chief Omorede Sunday.