Outrage in Ozoro: IYE Demands Urgent Action Against Criminal Abuse Masquerading as Culture (#EndOzoroRapeFestival)

IYE, a social cultural group in Delta State has issued a strongly worded statement condemning what it describes as disturbing and criminal practices reportedly carried out under the cover of a traditional festival in Ozoro community. In a press release signed by Comrade Lily-white O. Esigbone, (President IYE) and Comrade Eboma Tuoyo Michael (Secretary IYE), the group expressed deep concern over viral reports alleging incidents of sexual harassment and rape being tolerated, or worse, normalized during such events. IYE described the development as both heartbreaking and unacceptable in a modern society.

According to the group, no tradition, regardless of its historical roots, can justify acts that violate the dignity and bodily autonomy of women. It stressed that rape is not, and can never be, a cultural expression or rite of passage, but a grave criminal offense that leaves lasting trauma on victims and erodes the moral fabric of society. The group warned against the dangerous tendency to cloak criminality in the language of culture.

IYE further criticized what it called the silence and apparent inaction of community leaders in Ozoro, as well as the leadership of Isoko North Local Government. It argued that failure to decisively address such allegations amounts to complicity, noting that leadership carries the responsibility of safeguarding all residents, especially vulnerable groups.

The group also highlighted the legal implications of the reported acts, pointing out that rape is punishable under Nigerian law, including the Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Act and the Criminal Code. It emphasized that there are no legal exemptions for crimes committed under the guise of festivals or traditions, and urged authorities to treat the matter with the seriousness it deserves.

Particular concern was raised about the safety of students in Ozoro, a host community to the Delta State University of Science and Technology. IYE noted that the presence of a higher institution imposes an added duty on the community and government to ensure a secure and conducive learning environment for students drawn from across the country.

The group aligned itself with the position of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) Zone B, under the coordination of Comrade Victor Ogechukwu Anthony, commending its swift condemnation of the alleged acts. It stressed that no student should have to live or study in fear, particularly in an environment where harmful practices are tolerated in the name of tradition.

IYE concluded by calling for immediate government intervention, including a thorough investigation, the identification and prosecution of perpetrators seen in the viral footage, and a permanent ban on any festival practices that endanger women. It also urged collaboration between educational institutions, security agencies, and community leaders to establish safety measures during local festivities. The group reaffirmed its stance that tradition must evolve to uphold human dignity, insisting that there can be no justification for rape in any society.

Signed:

Comr. Lily-white O Esigbone
President – IYE

Comr. Eboma Touyo Michael
Secretary – IYE