A viral video allegedly showing young women being sexually harassed during a cultural festival in Delta State has triggered widespread anger and calls for justice.
The footage, linked to activities during the Alue-Do Festival in Ozoro, has sparked heavy criticism online, with many condemning the treatment of women captured in the clip.
“It is disturbing that something like this could be tolerated in society. This is heartbreaking, and urgent action needs to be taken,” a user on X, @Teeniiola, stated.
Reacting, the state government strongly denounced the incident, warning that cultural events must not be used to justify abuse.
“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,” said Charles Aniagwu.
Authorities also called for swift action against those responsible.
“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 added.
Meanwhile, leaders of the Ozoro Kingdom disputed some of the claims circulating online, saying the incident stemmed from a misinterpretation of traditional practices associated with the festival.
“Some youths misinterpreted and misapplied this cultural practice in a negative and unacceptable manner, leading to the harassment of some young women,” the statement read.
They, however, denied reports of rape or widespread violence.
The Delta State Police Command confirmed that investigations are underway, with officers deployed to identify and arrest those involved.
“All information provided will be treated with strict confidentiality and the highest level of professionalism,” a statement signed by Police spokesperson Bright Edafe partly read.
“The Delta State Police Command condemns this development in totality and assures that all those involved in these reprehensible acts will be arrested and prosecuted in accordance with the law,” it added.
