WELA Condemns Illegal Curfews, Demands Protection of Women’s Rights

The Founder of Women Empowerment and Legal Aid (WELA), Funmi Falana, has strongly condemned the imposition of curfews by non-state actors across parts of Nigeria, describing the practice as unconstitutional and dangerous, particularly for women and girls.
In a statement addressing recent incidents in Ozoro, Falana noted that the events are not isolated but reflect a broader pattern of unlawful restrictions often enforced under the guise of cultural traditions. She argued that such actions represent an abuse of power rather than a legitimate cultural practice.
According to the statement, festivals such as Oro, Agemo and Ekpe in regions including the South-West and the Niger Delta have frequently been used to justify movement restrictions. These curfews often disproportionately affect women, non-indigenes and non-initiates, leading to disruptions in daily life, including business activities and education.
Falana emphasized that the situation in Ozoro highlights the severe consequences of allowing unauthorized groups to control public movement. She warned that such practices create an environment where lawlessness thrives and vulnerable groups, especially women and girls, are exposed to abuse.
Citing the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (1999, as amended), she reiterated that fundamental rights – including freedom of movement, personal liberty, and freedom from discrimination – cannot be suspended by traditional institutions or private individuals. Only legally authorized government bodies may impose curfews, and such measures must meet strict legal standards.
She also referenced judicial precedents, including a ruling by the Ogun State High Court, which declared traditional curfews unconstitutional and restricted their enforcement. Similar positions, she noted, have been upheld in cases arising from festival practices in Oyo State.
The statement further pointed to the Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Act, which criminalizes harmful traditional practices, intimidation and deprivation of liberty. Falana stressed that curfews enforced through threats or violence should be treated as criminal acts.
WELA called for a nationwide prohibition of all curfews imposed by non-state actors. The organization urged state governments to clearly define the limits of traditional authority and enforce sanctions against violators. It also called on law enforcement agencies to treat the enforcement of illegal curfews as a criminal offence, particularly when accompanied by abuse or extortion.
While affirming the value of cultural heritage, Falana encouraged the modernisation of traditional festivals to align with global standards that promote tourism and community development without infringing on human rights.
“Our festivals should showcase our heritage—not weaponise it. They should attract visitors—not instil fear. They should empower communities—not degrade women and girls.”
She urged government authorities, traditional institutions and the public to take a firm stand against practices that endanger citizens, emphasizing that no culture should override fundamental rights.
The statement made a call to action, warning that continued tolerance of unlawful curfews will lead to further violations and injustice, and stressing the need for Nigeria to uphold the rule of law over unchecked traditional practices.