Police Nab Delta Community Head, Four Others Over Ozoro Festival Sexual Assaults

Police authorities in Delta State have arrested a community head and five other suspects over alleged sexual assaults linked to a controversial festival in Ozoro community.

According to the police, the suspects were apprehended following reports that women who appeared in public during the traditional event were subjected to sexual violence by participants enforcing local customs.

Moreover, the police identified the community head and chief organiser of the festival as Chief Omorede Sunday, who was arrested alongside other suspects from the same area. 

Authorities indicated that the arrests form part of a broader effort to dismantle practices that violate fundamental human rights under the guise of tradition.

The Police Public Relations Officer in the state, Bright Edafe, confirmed the development in a statement, stressing that the command has taken decisive steps to ensure accountability. 

“The community head and chief organiser of the event, one Chief Omorede Sunday, and four other suspects have been arrested,” he said.

Furthermore, Edafe disclosed that the Commissioner of Police has directed that the suspects be immediately transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department for thorough investigation and possible prosecution. 

“The CP has ordered that they should be transferred to State CID with immediate effect,” he added.

He also reiterated the command’s commitment to justice, warning that no individual found culpable would escape the law. 

“Anyone involved in this act will be arrested and brought to justice,” Edafe said.

However, preliminary findings revealed that the incident stemmed from a traditional festival in which women are reportedly prohibited from appearing in public. 

Violations of this rule allegedly led to acts of sexual assault carried out by some male participants.

The incident occurred in Ozoro town on Thursday, while the statement confirming the arrests was issued on March 20, 2026.

Authorities have since urged residents to remain law-abiding and report any unlawful activities, emphasising that cultural practices must not infringe on the rights and dignity of individuals.