The Delta State Police Command has arrested a community leader and four other suspects after an alleged sexual assault during a cultural festival in Ozoro, Isoko North Local Government Area of Delta State. The event has triggered widespread outrage across Nigeria and renewed scrutiny of harmful traditional practices.
Police confirmed the arrests on Friday. This action followed viral videos showing young men allegedly attacking women at the annual festival. Police authorities named the suspects, including the community head, Chief Omorede Sunday, and four others from the Oramudu quarters of Ozoro. 
The Commissioner of Police in Delta State, Aina Adesola, ordered the immediate transfer of the suspects to the State Criminal Investigation Department for further investigation, while assuring the public that all individuals found culpable would be brought to justice.
The incident reportedly occurred on Thursday, March 19th, during a traditional festival in which women were allegedly expected to remain indoors. Reports indicate that women who defied this restriction and appeared in public spaces were chased, harassed, and in some cases physically assaulted by groups of men.
While initial accounts suggested widespread molestation, including the tearing of clothes and physical assault, some claims also alleged incidents of rape. However, authorities have stated that such claims are still under investigation and have not been officially confirmed. 
Police spokesperson Bright Edafe described the incident as alarming, disgusting, and embarrassing, emphasising that no cultural practice or tradition should override the fundamental rights and dignity of citizens. He reiterated the command’s zero tolerance for gender based violence and urged witnesses to come forward with credible information to aid ongoing investigations. 
The Delta State Government also condemned the incident in strong terms, describing the acts as barbaric and unacceptable. Officials called on security agencies to ensure that all perpetrators are identified and prosecuted, while also urging community leaders across the state to implement measures that guarantee the safety of participants during cultural events. 
Public reaction to the incident has been swift and intense, particularly on social media platforms where users expressed anger and demanded accountability.
Authorities have maintained that investigations are ongoing and that additional arrests may follow as more evidence emerges. The police have also reassured residents of their commitment to maintaining law and order while preventing any recurrence of such incidents in future festivals.
Samuel Aina