● As Police Arrest Five, Order Full-scale Investigation

The Leadership of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), Zone B South-South has condemned the reports of the alleged rape, molestation, and harassment of Female students in Ozoro Kingdom, allegedly carried out under the disguise of a festival known as Aluejo.

In a statement by NANS Zone B Coordinator, Comrade Victor Ogechukwu Anthony of Delta State Polytechnic, Delta State Polytechnic, Ogwashi-Uku described the act as reprehensible and gross violation of human rights.

Anthony further described the incident as a direct threat to the safety, dignity, and well-being of Nigerian students in the state.

“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.

In addition, NANS Zone B 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, one 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.

“The Command urges members of the public, particularly victims and witnesses, to come forward with any information that will aid ongoing investigations. All information provided will be treated with strict confidentiality and the highest level of professionalism,” the statement read.