Ozoro festival in Delta Asaba, Nigeria: Citizens Paralysed with fear

By: Nomahlubi Charlie

Thursday, the 19^th of March, 2026, marked a distressing chapter in the small Nigerian town of Delta Asaba. The Ozoro festival, traditionally a time of cultural celebration, turned into a nightmare for many. In Oramundu Quarters, what was meant to be a festive occasion was marred by accounts of rampant violence against women. During this significant event, women and girls were advised to stay indoors during specific hours. Many unaware visitors, including students from Delta State University, found themselves in a perilous environment where women were allegedly stripped, molested, and assaulted in broad daylight.

Delta State University- Photo from Pinterest

The festival, which has been a cherished tradition for decades, highlighted the troubling reality of gender-based violence that continues to plague communities worldwide. According to global statistics, approximately 840 million women have experienced physical or sexual violence from intimate partners or non-partners, with 260 million, about 8%, reporting incidents of sexual violence. In the wake of these events, the Delta State Police Command rejected claims that the festival became a “rape festival”, asserting that they had not received any official reports of sexual assault, despite an alarming video circulating on social media depicting a girl being chased by a large group of men. The chairman of Isoko North Local Government Area, Godwin Ogurugba, described the act as “inhumane, barbaric, and totally unacceptable,” stating that no tradition could justify the degradation and violence towards women. He also stated that there has been no official approval from community leaders for any such festival.

Delta State Police Relation: Officer Bright Edafe- Photo from The Nation Newspaper

Police Public Officer Bright Edafe stated during an interview in The Morning Brief  that none of the four girls interviewed reported any instances of rape. He emphasized, “To date, no official complaint of rape has been lodged.” While 16 suspects have been apprehended, the investigation remains ongoing and is being guided by evidence and witness statements; however, no victims have come forward to file a report.

 Authorities did visit Ozoro and the Oramundu community to meet with victims, assuring them that the state government would cover the medical expenses, compensate for lost property, and provide psychological support. However, with no victims coming forward to report the assault, the case may struggle to achieve any significant outcome. This incident serves as a pressing reminder of the global struggle against gender-based violence and the urgent need for action and support for victims everywhere.

The President of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Mazi Afam Osigwe, emphasized that no woman should ever endure such terror or have her dignity violated in such a manner. He asserted that women should feel safe carrying out their daily activities without fearing lawlessness masked as tradition. This incident not only highlights the urgent need for societal change but also calls for a collective commitment to uphold the rights and safety of women everywhere.           

The NBA President, Mazi Afam- Picture from the Guardian, conscience nurtured by truth.

The association also urges that community leaders, traditional institutions, and festival organizers take accountability for their actions during the festival period, noting that cultural celebrations must never become a stage for violence but must uphold dignity and respect for human life.

Article Edited By: Munei Zoe Mbedzi