Peter Obi condemns the assault of women during the Ozoro festival in Delta State, urging Nigeria to prioritize education, women’s empowerment, and security to foster sustainable national development

Former presidential candidate Peter Obi has strongly condemned the reported attacks on women during a traditional festival in Ozoro, describing the incident as both disturbing and indicative of misplaced national priorities.

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In a statement shared on his X (formerly Twitter) account, Obi expressed concern that while other countries are investing in education, human capital development, and women’s empowerment, Nigeria continues to focus on less critical matters, including controversial cultural events such as the ‘Alue-Do’ festival.

The incident occurred on March 19 in Ozoro, the headquarters of Isoko North Local Government Area. Reports suggest that several women and female students were attacked and sexually assaulted by youths during the festival, prompting public outrage and condemnation.

Obi emphasized that women are essential to national development and must be protected, empowered, and given meaningful opportunities to contribute to society.

He cited examples of countries like Indonesia and Bangladesh, where active support for women in business and the workforce has driven economic growth.

Highlighting Nigeria’s demographic reality, Obi noted that women constitute more than half of the population yet remain underrepresented in leadership and economic sectors, a gap that he warned could hinder sustainable national progress.

He called for a national reevaluation of priorities, urging policymakers to focus on security, education, and inclusion, especially for women and young people.

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Obi concluded by appealing to leaders and citizens to commit to building a safer and more productive society, stressing that Nigeria can still achieve progress with the right investments in its people.