Dare Babalola
The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), Zone B South-South, has expressed its profound dismay and condemnation regarding reports of alleged rape, molestation, and harassment of female students in Ozoro Kingdom, Delta State purportedly perpetrated under the guise of the Aluejo festival.
In a formal statement released by Comrade Victor Ogechukwu Anthony, Coordinator of NANS Zone B, and a student of Delta State Polytechnic, Ogwashi-Uku, these acts were unequivocally condemned as reprehensible and a flagrant infringement upon human rights.
Anthony further stressed that such incidents constitute a direct affront to the safety, dignity, and overall well-being of Nigerian students residing within the state, warranting immediate attention and action.
“It is particularly alarming that such incidents are reportedly occurring within a student-dominated environment, as Ozoro community serves as the host town to Southern Delta University.
“NANS Zone B unequivocally states that no cultural practice or festival should be used as a cover to perpetrate criminal acts against innocent students. The sanctity of human life and respect for personal dignity must never be compromised under any guise whatsoever.
“In light of this development, we call on the Nigeria Police Force, the Department of State Services, and the Palace of the Ozoro Kingdom to immediately launch a thorough investigation into these allegations. The perpetrators must be identified, apprehended, and brought to justice without delay. We also urge the traditional authorities to take decisive steps in restoring peace, order, and confidence within the community,” the statement read.
The student body directed the NANS Joint Campus Council (JCC), Delta State Axis, to urgently visit Ozoro, engage relevant stakeholders, and carry out an on-the-spot assessment of the situation within the school environment.
“A comprehensive report is expected to guide further actions in ensuring the protection of students’ rights and safety.
“We assure Nigerian students, particularly those in Southern Delta University and its environs, that NANS remains committed to defending their interests and will not relent in speaking against any form of abuse, intimidation, or injustice.
“NANS Zone B stands firmly against all forms of gender-based violence and calls on all stakeholders to collaborate in safeguarding our campuses and host communities,” the statement concluded.
Meanwhile, the Commissioner of Police in Delta State, Aina Adesola, has condemned the incident while ordering a full-scale investigation.
In a statement by the State Police Public Relations Officer, SP Bright Edafe, on Friday, the Chief organiser, Chief Omorede Sunday, and four other suspects have been arrested.
“The Command unequivocally condemns such acts in their entirety. Acts of sexual violence are criminal, inhumane, and constitute a grave violation of the fundamental rights and dignity of victims.
“The Commissioner of Police, upon receipt of the disturbing videos, ordered an immediate investigation into the incident. The Chief organiser, one Chief Omorede Sunday and four other suspects have been arrested.
“Consequently, the Commissioner of Police, Delta State Command, CP Aina Adesola, has ordered that the case be immediately transferred to State Criminal Department (SCID) for further investigation. Tactical and investigative assets have been duly deployed with a clear mandate to identify, apprehend, and ensure the prosecution of all individuals found culpable.”
