The Delta State Police Command has vowed to arrest and prosecute those responsible for the alleged sexual assaults of several women during a festival in Ozoro, Delta State.
Police spokesperson, Bright Edafe, disclosed this in a post on X, describing the incident as “alarming, disgusting and embarrassing.”
According to him, the Commissioner of Police in the state, Aina Adesola, has ordered a full investigation into the incident.
“The command condemns this in totality. No custom or tradition is superior to the rights of citizens,” Edafe stated, while urging residents to remain calm and cooperate with authorities.
He also appealed to members of the public to provide useful information that could aid the ongoing investigation, assuring that those involved would be brought to justice.
The development follows disturbing videos circulating online, which show women being attacked and sexually assaulted by groups of men during the festival.
Reports indicate that the community observes an annual event in March where women are traditionally expected to remain indoors. It is alleged that those who defy the restriction are subjected to harassment and assault.
Videos from the incident show young men chasing women on the streets, tearing their clothes, and assaulting them, with allegations that some victims were raped.
The police have reiterated their commitment to upholding the rights and safety of all citizens, stressing that cultural practices cannot justify acts of violence or abuse.
