Calls for justice have intensified following the alleged assault of three young women at Black Box nightclub in Port Harcourt, Rivers State. The incident, which occurred while the women were celebrating a friend’s birthday, has sparked widespread outrage and condemnation on social media.
According to the victims, the assault began when a male patron accused them of filming him. Despite their compliance, he allegedly launched a violent attack, leaving one woman with a severe head injury and another missing a front tooth. The third woman claimed she was pushed down the stairs, stripped naked, and beaten by the man and his entourage, including security guards.
The Rivers State Police Command has confirmed that it is investigating the matter. In a statement on X, the command said, “The DPO within that jurisdiction has expedited action by inviting the hotel manager and the alleged suspect to his office for immediate investigation. I would also like to use this medium to invite the victims involved to come forward and make their statements.”
A human rights group, Behind Bar Human Rights Foundation, has stepped in to support the women. The group’s director, Adebayo Steve, said two of the victims visited the police station on Friday, while the other two are still receiving treatment. Steve expressed disappointment that neither the nightclub owner nor the alleged attacker showed up at the station, adding, “Personally, I have not heard from the man, but no matter what the girls might have done, that does not mean he can inflict such body harm on them.”
The incident has ignited a firestorm online, with advocacy groups and influencers amplifying the victims’ calls for justice. Many Nigerians have expressed anger and frustration, demanding the man’s arrest and prosecution. Some have also criticized the nightclub, suggesting that it should be held accountable for failing to prevent the incident.
On social media, users have been vocal about their outrage. An Instagram user, Firstlaidii, wrote, “The club should be reported too!!! Cos they could have avoided this rubbish.” Another user, simplysuzi, said, “What happened is violent assault, plain and simple!!! The fact that a man couldn’t handle a polite boundary or rejection and responded with extreme violence shows deep-rooted entitlement, misogyny, and a complete lack of accountability.”
The police have confirmed that the accused man was apprehended on Saturday, June 14, and released on Sunday, June 15. The victims and the suspect have met with the state Commissioner of Police for an interview.
