By Prosper Mene
The Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF), the apex socio-political organization representing the interests of the Niger Delta region, has called for an immediate and thorough investigation into the alleged harassment and assault of women during a recent cultural festival in Ozoro, Delta State.
In a statement issued on March 23, 2026, and signed by its National Spokesman, Chief Dr. Obiuwevbi Ominimini, PANDEF described the reported incidents as deeply disturbing and unacceptable. The group urged the Nigeria Police Force to act swiftly, identify the perpetrators, and ensure they face justice without delay.
The controversy originates from the annual Alue-Do festival held in Ozoro, headquarters of Isoko North Local Government Area. Viral videos circulating on social media since around March 19-20, 2026, reportedly show groups of men chasing, stripping, molesting, and in some accounts assaulting women in public during the event. Some reports describe the acts as sexual violence, including harassment and alleged rape, sparking widespread national outrage.
The Delta State Government has strongly condemned the incidents as “barbaric” and “totally unacceptable,” directing security agencies to launch a full probe. The state Commissioner for Works (Rural Roads) and Public Information, Charles Aniagwu, emphasized that no cultural practice justifies such acts and called for the perpetrators to be apprehended and prosecuted.
The Delta State Police Command has already begun investigations, with reports indicating arrests, including the community head and festival organizer Chief Omorede Sunday, along with others. Authorities have stressed that allegations are under review, and no cultural justification will override citizens’ rights and safety.
The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) labeled the events a “national disgrace” and a collapse of societal values, demanding full accountability.
Political parties like the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and civil society organizations, including the Take-It-Back Movement, have made demands for thorough probes and prosecutions without cover-ups.
PANDEF’s intervention highlights the regional dimension, as the Niger Delta body positions itself against any form of violence or rights abuse in its domain, reinforcing calls for law enforcement to prioritize victim protection and deterrence.
