The Chairman, Senate Committee on Local Content, Senator Joel-Onowakpo Thomas, has denounced an alleged assault on women and girls at a festival in Oramudu, Ozoro Kingdom, Isoko Local Government Area of Delta State.
Senator Thomas, who represents Delta South Senatorial District, called the attack “criminal, barbaric and an egregious violation of human dignity,” and therefore demanded swift justice and stronger safeguards for women’s rights.
The lawmaker, who made the remarks Monday after visiting the Ovie of Ozoro, His Royal Majesty Anthony Ogbogbo Ibuka I, at the royal palace, noted that the celebration, normally peaceful, was hijacked by criminal elements.
“As an Isoko man, I feel deep pain at this misrepresentation. There is no ‘rape festival’ in Ozoro or anywhere in Isoko land. Our culture honours peace, respect and the protection of women. What happened was not heritage—it was crime,” he said.
Senator Thomas praised Ozoro indigene, the President General, local vigilantes and the Nigeria Police for rescuing victims and restoring order.
He urged the police to pursue a transparent investigation and called on community and cultural leaders to tighten security for future festivals.
“All forms of sexual assault, molestation, harassment and trauma inflicted on women are utterly unacceptable. Our tradition forbids it; no girl or woman should ever face such humiliation again,” he added.
Senator Thomas appealed for calm in Ozoro and across Isoko land, pledging to work with stakeholders and security agencies to secure justice and prevention.
“Together we will uphold the values that make Ozoro Kingdom a beacon of peace, culture and progress,” he concluded.