Delta govt condemns sexual harassment during Ozoro festival, demands arrest, prosecution of suspects
By Ishaya Ibrahim
The Delta State Government has strongly condemned reports of harassment and sexual assault against women during the recent Ozoro Festival in Isoko North Local Government Area, describing the acts as barbaric, unacceptable, and having no place in society.
In a statement issued on Friday, State Commissioner for Works (Rural Roads) and Public Information, Charles Aniagwu, expressed deep disturbance over allegations that women were harassed and, in some cases, sexually assaulted under the guise of festival activities.
He emphasized that no cultural celebration can justify criminality or violations of women’s dignity and rights, and called for urgent action by security agencies.
“The Delta State Government strongly condemns the harassment of ladies and the reported cases of rape during the Ozoro Festival. Such barbaric acts are totally unacceptable and have no place in our society,” he said.
He called on security agencies, particularly the Nigeria Police, to urgently investigate the incidents and ensure that those responsible are identified, apprehended, and prosecuted.
“The state government frowns at any act that violates the dignity and rights of women, noting that cultural celebrations must never be used as a cover for criminality,” Aniagwu added.
The statement comes amid widespread outrage on social media over viral videos showing groups of men chasing and manhandling women in Ozoro streets during the festival period, with some users labeling it a “rape festival” tradition while others deny it represents the community.
