(DDM) — Legal practitioners and human rights advocates have called for an immediate ban on cultural festivals that promote or enable violence against women, following recent assault cases linked to such events in parts of Nigeria.
The call was made by concerned lawyers and civil society actors who warned that certain traditional practices, when left unchecked, can become platforms for abuse, intimidation, and gross violations of women’s rights.
According to legal experts, the continued tolerance of harmful cultural festivals undermines the provisions of the Nigerian Constitution, which guarantees the dignity, safety, and fundamental rights of all citizens regardless of gender.
They argued that no cultural practice should be allowed to override basic human rights, stressing that traditions must evolve in line with modern legal and ethical standards.
The demand follows disturbing reports of women and girls being subjected to harassment and assault during public festivals, raising concerns about safety, accountability, and the enforcement of existing laws.
Human rights advocates emphasized that such incidents often leave lasting psychological trauma on victims, in addition to physical harm, further highlighting the urgent need for preventive measures.
Legal analysts noted that authorities at both state and federal levels have a responsibility to regulate public gatherings and ensure that cultural expressions do not become avenues for criminal behaviour.
They also called for stricter enforcement of laws against sexual violence, urging law enforcement agencies to investigate reported cases thoroughly and prosecute offenders without delay.
Advocates further recommended public awareness campaigns to educate communities about the dangers of harmful cultural practices and the importance of protecting women’s rights.
They stressed that community leaders, traditional institutions, and event organisers must take proactive steps to ensure that festivals are conducted in a safe and respectful manner.
Observers say the growing outcry reflects a broader societal shift toward challenging long-standing norms that perpetuate gender-based violence and discrimination.
They argue that meaningful change will require a combination of legal action, cultural reform, and sustained advocacy to protect vulnerable groups and promote equality.
As calls for reform intensify, attention will be on how government authorities respond and whether decisive action will be taken to safeguard women and girls from abuse under the guise of tradition.
