ASABA/Nigeria: Former Governor of Delta State, Chief James Ibori, has broken his silence over the controversy surrounding an alleged incident linked to a festival in Ozoro, describing reports suggesting a “rape festival” in Urhobo and Isoko land as false and misleading.
Ibori, who made his position known in a statement issued on Tuesday, said he was shocked by the reports and had to personally verify the claims before speaking. He stressed that, from his findings, there is no cultural or traditional festival in Urhobo or Isoko land that promotes or condones violence against women.
The former governor, who said he has lived all his life in Urhobo land, including his eight-year tenure as governor, noted that this was the first time he had heard of such a festival.
“You can imagine my shock when I was contacted about this matter. My initial reaction was that it could not be true, but I had to verify,” he said, adding that every right-thinking individual must condemn any form of violence, particularly against vulnerable persons.
He explained that his investigations included consultations with the traditional institution in Ozoro, revealing that even the custodian of tradition, whose approval is required for such festivals, was not consulted.
According to him, it is therefore wrong to attribute the reported incident to the entire Isoko ethnic group or implicate the Urhobo people.
Ibori also faulted claims by some commentators linking the alleged incident to the Ekene festival, insisting that such assertions are unfounded and misrepresent the cultural values of the people.
“Festivals among Urhobo and Isoko people are deeply rooted in history and spirituality. They celebrate heritage, reinforce belief systems and are guided by strong moral values,” he said.
While condemning the reported incident, he commended security agencies for stepping in to investigate the matter and expressed confidence that the truth would emerge.
“It is my hope that this investigation will set the record straight—there is no ‘rape festival’ among Urhobo and Isoko people,” he stated.
The former governor further disclosed that he would engage relevant stakeholders, including the Vice-Chancellor of the university and the Ozoro traditional institution, to address the issue and ensure that youths are guided against actions that undermine cultural values and the dignity of women.
He emphasised that any conduct capable of eroding societal norms and respect for women must not be tolerated, calling for collective responsibility in preserving the integrity of the culture.
