Senator visits Ovie of Ozoro Kingdom, calls for thorough investigation and stronger measures to protect women and uphold community values
By Peterside Rejoice
Senator Joel-Onowakpo Thomas has strongly condemned the reported assault on women during a festival in Oramudu Community, the headquarters of Isoko North Local Government Area in Delta State, describing the acts as criminal, barbaric, and a serious violation of human dignity.
The senator made the remarks following a visit to His Royal Majesty, Anthony Ogbogbo Ibuka I, the Ovie of Ozoro Kingdom, where he expressed solidarity with both the kingdom and the victims of the disturbing incident. According to the senator, the visit offered firsthand insight into the events that occurred and reinforced his commitment to justice and the protection of women’s rights.
Senator Thomas denounced the reported acts as the work of a few criminal elements, emphasizing that they do not reflect the culture or traditions of the Isoko people. He clarified that there is no such thing as a “rape festival” in Ozoro Kingdom or anywhere in Isoko land, adding that the community’s culture is rooted in peace, respect, and the protection of human dignity, especially for women. He described the hijacking of the festival by the perpetrators as a deliberate attempt to exploit a cultural celebration for criminal purposes.
The senator praised the swift intervention of local authorities, including the President General of Ozoro, the local vigilante group, and the Nigeria Police Force, who responded promptly to rescue the victims and restore order at the scene. He noted that one of the victims sustained severe injuries but was rescued by the authorities, while others received medical treatment for varying degrees of harm.
He also urged the Nigeria Police Force to conduct a thorough and transparent investigation, stating that every individual involved must be identified, apprehended, and prosecuted according to the law. He stressed that justice must not only be served but also be seen to be served, calling it a non-negotiable requirement to restore public confidence and protect the dignity of women.
Senator Thomas condemned all forms of sexual assault, harassment, and abuse, warning that such acts are unacceptable and must never occur again in the community. He appealed to community leaders and cultural custodians to implement stricter oversight measures during festivals and public gatherings, ensuring these events remain celebrations of culture and heritage rather than platforms for violence.
He called on residents of Ozoro Kingdom and the wider Isoko community to remain calm and patient as authorities carry out their investigations, promising to work closely with stakeholders, including security agencies, to ensure justice is delivered and preventive measures are established.
“The strength of any society lies in its ability to protect its most vulnerable members. Violence against women is a stain on our humanity, and we must all rise together to condemn it and ensure its eradication,” Senator Thomas said.
He concluded by reaffirming his commitment to uphold the values that make Ozoro Kingdom a symbol of peace, culture, and progress, urging the community to continue promoting unity, respect, and protection of human dignity.
