Outrage Sparks Delta Govt, Police Inquiry into Ozoro Festival Sexual Violence

The move follows a wave of public outrage sparked by viral footage showing groups of young men cornering women, tearing their clothes, and subjecting them to public molestation.

The incident reportedly took place on Thursday, March 19.

According to local accounts, the violence stems from a traditional expectation that women remain indoors during the annual festival; those found outside are allegedly targeted for abuse.

While reports of sexual assault remain unconfirmed, officials are working to establish the full scope of the crimes committed.

Describing the situation as “alarming, disgusting, and embarrassing,” Police Public Relations Officer Bright Edafe announced that a full-scale probe is underway.

The investigation was personally mandated by the Commissioner of Police, Aina Adesola.

“This is alarming, disgusting and embarrassing. The CP has ordered an investigation into the incident. The command condemns this in totality, no custom or tradition is superior to the rights of citizens,” he said.

Edafe also called on witnesses to come forward with useful information to aid the investigation, assuring that those responsible would be brought to justice.

Meanwhile, the Delta State Government has directed security agencies to track down perpetrators involved in the harassment and alleged assault of women during the festival.

The government described the incident as barbaric and unacceptable, stressing that cultural celebrations must not be used as a cover for criminal acts.

State Commissioner for Works (Rural Roads) and Public Information, Charles Aniagwu, made this known in a statement issued on Friday

He said the government would not tolerate any violation of the dignity and rights of women.

“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.

Aniagwu called for a thorough investigation and urged law enforcement agencies to ensure that those responsible are identified, apprehended, and prosecuted in accordance with the law.

He also appealed to community leaders and festival organisers to implement adequate security measures to prevent a recurrence, reiterating the state’s zero tolerance for gender-based violence.