The Delta State Government has condemned reports of women being harassed and sexually assaulted during the Ozoro Festival, calling the acts barbaric and unacceptable.
In a statement issued on Friday, the Commissioner for Works (Rural Roads) and Public Information, Charles Aniagwu, called on security agencies to investigate the incident and bring the perpetrators to justice.
“We are calling on the police and other security agencies to fish out the perpetrators of these heinous acts and bring them to justice. No individual or group should be allowed to hide under the guise of a festival to perpetrate criminal activities,” Aniagwu said.
He assured residents that the government remains committed to protecting the rights and safety of all citizens, particularly women and vulnerable groups. Aniagwu also urged community leaders and festival organisers across the state to implement adequate security measures to prevent such incidents in the future.
The state reiterated its zero-tolerance stance on gender-based violence, warning that anyone found culpable would face the full weight of the law.
Earlier reports indicated videos and claims circulating online allegedly showed women being assaulted during the traditional festival in Ozoro, sparking widespread condemnation.
Many critics decried what they described as society’s tolerance of violence against women under the guise of cultural celebration.
Reacting to the reports, the spokesperson for the Delta State Police Command, Bright Edafe, described the incident as “alarming, disgusting, and embarrassing,” confirming that an investigation has commenced. As of press time, no arrests had been made, but police assured the public that efforts to apprehend those responsible are ongoing.