Senator Thomas Decries Assault on Women in Ozoro, Calls for Stronger Protection

Chairman of the Senate Committee on Local Content and Senator representing Delta South, Joel-Onowakpo Thomas, has strongly condemned the attack on women and girls during a festival in Oramudu Community, Ozoro Kingdom, headquarters of Isoko North Local Government Area of Delta State.

The lawmaker, a member of the All Progressives Congress (APC), described the incident as criminal, barbaric, and a grave violation of human dignity.
In a statement he personally signed on Monday after visiting His Royal Majesty, Anthony Ogbogbo Ibuka I, the Ovie of Ozoro Kingdom, at his palace, Thomas called for swift justice and enhanced protection of women’s rights.
He stated that, as an Isoko man, he was deeply pained by what he described as the misrepresentation of the people and their traditions. He emphasized that there is no such thing as a “rape festival” in Ozoro Kingdom or anywhere in Isoko land, noting that the culture of the people is founded on peace, respect, and the protection of human dignity, especially for women. He stressed that the incident in Oramudu Community was not a reflection of their heritage but the actions of a few criminal elements.
Thomas commended the prompt response of the indigenous people of Ozoro, the President General of the community, local vigilante groups, and the Nigeria Police Force for rescuing the victims and restoring order. He, however, urged the police to carry out a thorough and transparent investigation, insisting that justice must be seen to be done.
He also called on community leaders and custodians of culture to enforce stricter measures during festivals and public gatherings to prevent a recurrence.
The senator maintained that all forms of sexual assault, molestation, harassment, and any act that causes harm or trauma to women are unacceptable and must be condemned. He added that such behavior is against the traditions of the people and should never be allowed again.
Thomas further appealed for calm among residents of Ozoro Kingdom and the wider Isoko community, assuring that he would work with relevant stakeholders and security agencies to ensure justice is served and preventive measures are put in place.
He concluded by expressing confidence that the values of peace, culture, and progress for which Ozoro Kingdom is known would be upheld.