The Delta State Police Command has arrested five persons, including a community leader and festival organiser, over the alleged sexual assault of women during a cultural event in Ozoro, Delta State.
The command’s spokesperson, Bright Edafe, disclosed this on Friday, identifying one of the suspects as Chief Omorede Sunday, the community head and chief organiser of the Ozoro festival, alongside four others from Oramudu quarters.
According to Edafe, the Commissioner of Police, Aina Adesola, has ordered the immediate transfer of the suspects to the State Criminal Investigation Department (CID) for further investigation.
“The community head and chief organiser of the event, Chief Omorede Sunday, and four other suspects have been arrested. The CP has directed their transfer to the State CID with immediate effect and has vowed that all those involved will be brought to justice,” he said.
The arrests followed the viral circulation of disturbing videos showing groups of young men allegedly attacking women during the festival, forcefully tearing their clothes and subjecting them to various forms of molestation.
The incident reportedly occurred on March 19 during the annual celebration, where it is alleged that women are expected to remain indoors, with those found outside targeted for harassment. While some accounts claim that victims were raped, authorities say such allegations are yet to be officially confirmed.
Earlier, Edafe condemned the incident as “alarming, disgusting, and embarrassing,” stressing that no cultural practice can override fundamental human rights. He also urged witnesses to come forward with useful information.
The Delta State Government has also denounced the incident, with Commissioner for Works (Rural Roads) and Public Information, Charles Aniagwu, describing the acts as barbaric and unacceptable.
“We call on security agencies to identify and prosecute those responsible. No one should hide under the guise of a festival to commit criminal acts,” Aniagwu said.
He further urged community leaders and festival organisers across the state to strengthen security arrangements to protect participants and prevent a recurrence.
The government reiterated its zero tolerance for gender-based violence, warning that anyone found culpable would face the full weight of the law.
The incident has since sparked widespread outrage on social media, with many users demanding justice and calling for an end to harmful cultural practices that violate the rights of women.
