ASABA/Nigeria: The Delta State Government has expressed outrage over reports of harassment and sexual assault of women during the recent Ozoro Festival, vowing that those behind the acts will be brought to justice.
The Commissioner for Works (Rural Roads) and Public Information, Mr. Charles Aniagwu, in a statement issued on Friday, said the disturbing accounts of abuse carried out under the guise of festival celebrations were unacceptable and must not be tolerated.
According to him, the government is deeply concerned that a cultural event meant to promote unity and heritage was allegedly exploited to perpetrate acts that violate the dignity and rights of women.
“The Delta State Government strongly condemns the harassment of ladies and the reported cases of rape during the Ozoro Festival. Such barbaric acts are totally unacceptable and have no place in our society,” Aniagwu stated.
He emphasized that cultural festivals must not be reduced to platforms for lawlessness, insisting that any individual or group found culpable would be made to face the consequences of their actions.
The commissioner called on the Nigeria Police and other security agencies to immediately commence investigations, identify the perpetrators and ensure their prosecution in accordance with the law.
“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 state government’s unwavering commitment to the protection of lives and property, particularly the safety and rights of women and vulnerable groups.
He also urged community leaders and organisers of cultural festivals across the state to strengthen safety measures and put in place effective monitoring mechanisms to prevent a recurrence.
Reiterating its zero tolerance for gender-based violence, the state government warned that offenders would face the full weight of the law, stressing that Delta remains committed to upholding justice, dignity and the rule of law.
