The Delta State Police Command has arrested five individuals, including the chief organiser and community head, in connection with viral videos showing alleged sexual assaults on women during the annual Ozoro festival in Isoko North Local Government Area.
The suspects, led by Chief Omorede Sunday, the community head and primary organiser of the event, were apprehended from Oramudu quarters in Ozoro. The arrests follow widespread outrage sparked by disturbing social media footage showing women being stripped, molested, harassed, and allegedly sexually assaulted by youths under the guise of festival traditions.
Dubbed a “raping festival” by some online commentators, the clips showed victims crying for help amid the chaotic scenes.
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Delta State Police Public Relations Officer, SP Bright Edafe, described the acts as “barbaric, unacceptable, and a gross violation of human rights.” Commissioner of Police CP Aina Adesola has ordered a thorough investigation, assuring the public that perpetrators will face justice. Authorities urged calm while emphasizing that no custom or tradition supersedes citizens’ rights.
The Delta State Government, through Commissioner for Works (Rural Roads) and Public Information Charles Aniagwu, condemned the incidents as inhumane and barbaric, directing swift action. Isoko North Local Government Chairman Godwin Ogorugba echoed this, vowing prosecution to prevent future occurrences.
Civil society groups and netizens have demanded full accountability, hailing the rapid arrests as a step toward justice amid calls to end such violations during cultural events.
