The Delta State Government condemned alleged assaults on women during the Ozoro Festival, calling the acts “barbaric and unacceptable”
Commissioner Charles Aniagwu urged security agencies to investigate and prosecute perpetrators
The state reiterated its zero tolerance for gender-based violence and promised strict legal action
The Delta State Government has strongly condemned reports of harassment and sexual assault against women during the Ozoro Festival, labelling the acts as barbaric and unacceptable.
In a statement released on Friday, March 20, the Commissioner for Works (Rural Roads) and Public Information, Charles Aniagwu, urged security agencies to launch a thorough investigation and ensure that those responsible are brought 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,” he said.
Aniagwu reassured residents of the government’s commitment to safeguarding the rights and security of all citizens, with particular attention to women and other vulnerable groups.
He also called on community leaders and festival organisers across the state to implement stricter security measures to protect attendees and prevent a recurrence of such incidents.
The government reiterated its zero tolerance for gender-based violence, warning that anyone found culpable would face the full weight of the law.
The controversy follows earlier reports and viral videos allegedly showing women being assaulted during a traditional festival in Ozoro, Delta State.
Although full details of the incident remain unclear, the allegations have triggered widespread outrage, with many criticising what they describe as a culture of silence and tolerance of violence against women under the guise of tradition.
Reacting to the development, the spokesperson for the Delta State Police Command, Bright Edafe, described the situation as “alarming, disgusting and embarrassing,” confirming that an investigation is already underway.