A wave of outrage has trailed the alleged assault on women during a cultural festival in Oramudu Community, Ozoro Kingdom, headquarters of Isoko North Local Government Area of Delta State, with Senator Joel-Onowakpo Thomas calling for a thorough investigation and prosecution of those responsible.
Senator Joel-Onowakpo, who represents Delta South Senatorial District, made the call after visiting the Ovie of Ozoro Kingdom, His Royal Majesty Anthony Ogbogbo Ibuka I, at his palace to express solidarity with the victims and the community over the disturbing incident.
Condemning the reported assault, the senator described the act as criminal, barbaric and a gross violation of human dignity, stressing that such conduct has no place in any civilized society.
“The reported assault on women during what should have been a peaceful cultural celebration is criminal and an egregious violation of human dignity. Such actions have no place in our society,” he said.
He dismissed claims in some quarters that the incident was part of any cultural practice in the area, insisting that there is no tradition in Isoko land that supports sexual violence.
“There is no such thing as a ‘rape festival’ in Ozoro Kingdom or anywhere in Isoko land. Our culture is rooted in peace, respect and the protection of human dignity, especially for women. What happened in Oramudu Community was the handiwork of criminal elements who hijacked a legitimate fertility festival to perpetrate despicable acts,” he stated.
The lawmaker commended the swift intervention of community leaders, the President General of Ozoro, local vigilante groups and the Nigeria Police Force, whose actions, he said, helped rescue victims and restore calm.
He called on the police to carry out a comprehensive and transparent investigation into the incident, urging that all those involved be identified, arrested and prosecuted in accordance with the law.
“Justice must not only be served but must be seen to be served. This is non-negotiable,” he stressed.
Joel-Onowakpo also urged community leaders and cultural custodians to strengthen security arrangements around festivals and public gatherings to prevent future occurrences, noting that cultural events should promote unity and pride rather than fear.
He appealed to residents of Ozoro Kingdom and the wider Isoko nation to remain calm while authorities investigate the matter, assuring that efforts would be made in collaboration with relevant stakeholders to ensure justice for the victims and safeguard the dignity of women.
The incident has sparked widespread concern across Delta State, with renewed calls for stronger protection of women and stricter oversight of public celebrations.
