Breaking: Delta State Govt Reveals Next Move After ‘Raping Festival’ Uproar

The Delta State Government has denied reports suggesting the existence of any festival that permits the sexual assault of women.

This clarification follows the circulation of viral videos showing women being attacked and harassed by groups of young men during what was described online as a “raping festival.”

Reacting to the development, the Senior Special Assistant on Media to the Governor, Ossai Ovie, stated that no such festival exists in the state and condemned the incident.

He expressed shock and disappointment over the events in Ozoro, assuring that all individuals involved would be held accountable.

Ovie emphasised that the state government does not tolerate any form of abuse, stressing that the laws of Delta State are designed to protect the rights and dignity of all citizens.

He further stated that no tradition or cultural practice can justify violence, harassment, or humiliation, particularly against women, adding that authorities are taking steps to prevent a recurrence.

Meanwhile, the spokesperson of the Delta State Police Command, SP Bright Edafe, also condemned the incident, describing the viral footage as disturbing and unacceptable.

Reports indicate that several women were assaulted by groups of men during the incident on Thursday, March 19, in Ozoro.

According to accounts, the community is said to hold an annual event in March during which women are expected to remain indoors, and those seen outside are targeted for harassment.

Videos circulating online show groups of young men chasing women on the streets, tearing their clothing, and subjecting them to abuse.

In response, Edafe revealed that the State Commissioner of Police, CP Aina Adesola, has ordered a full investigation into the matter, stressing that no custom or tradition supersedes the fundamental rights of citizens.

He assured the public that those responsible would be identified, arrested, and prosecuted, and also called on witnesses to come forward with useful information to support the ongoing investigation.