Widespread outrage has followed reports of the alleged rape and assault of young women during a festival in Oruamudhu community, Ozoro, in Isoko North Local Government Area of Delta State
Videos circulating on social media show disturbing scenes of men forcibly tearing the clothes of young women and groping them in public. In one clip, a distressed woman is seen crying while trying to cover herself after her clothes were ripped, while another shows a woman being attacked while on a motorcycle.
Some social media users claimed the incident was linked to a local festival reportedly known as Uruamudhu Aluejo, during which women are said to be barred from moving outdoors from midday until the following day. However, these claims have not been independently verified.
There were also allegations that some youths exploited the restriction to perpetrate assaults, with unconfirmed reports suggesting that attackers moved between residences targeting women.
Screenshots seen online indicated that students of Southern Delta University had been warned via WhatsApp groups to remain indoors during the period.
The videos have triggered widespread condemnation, with many Nigerians demanding swift action from security agencies to apprehend those responsible and ensure the protection of women.
Rape and sexual assault remain criminal offences under the laws of Delta State.
Reacting to the incident, police spokesperson in the state, Bright Edafe, described the development as “alarming, disgusting, and embarrassing”.
He disclosed that the Commissioner of Police in the state has ordered a full investigation into the matter.
“The CP has ordered an investigation into the incident. The command condemns this in totality, no custom or tradition is superior to the rights of citizens,” Edafe wrote.
“The Commissioner of Police Delta State CP Aina Adesola urges Deltans to remain calm while assuring that those responsible for this barbaric act will be arrested and brought to justice.
“The command also calls for witnesses who can provide useful information that can aid the ongoing investigation.”
Authorities have urged members of the public to come forward with credible information as efforts intensify to identify and prosecute those involved.
