By Anne Azuka
Delta State Commissioner of Police, Aina Adesola, on Sunday led a team of senior officers on a fact-finding and confidence-building visit to Ozoro as investigations continue into alleged incidents of sexual assault during a recent festival in the community.
The police boss, accompanied by top management staff of the command, paid a courtesy visit to the traditional ruler of Ozoro Kingdom, Anthony Uvietobore Ogbogbo, where he briefed the monarch on the progress of the investigation and reaffirmed the command’s zero-tolerance stance on sexual and gender-based violence.
Adesola also engaged key stakeholders, including the Chairman of Isoko North Local Government Area, Godwin Ogorugba; the President-General of Ozoro Community, Chief Berkley Asiafa; the South-South Zonal Coordinator of the National Association of Nigerian Students, Victor Ogechukwu; and the Students’ Union Government President of Southern Delta University, Oribelua Precious, amongst others.He also interacted with some of the victims.
Speaking at the palace, the Commissioner said the visit was prompted by the disturbing reports, noting that the Inspector-General of Police is deeply concerned about the development. He described the incident as an embarrassment to the local government, the state, and the country, assuring that the police would not relent until all perpetrators were identified, arrested, and prosecuted.Adesola further assured residents, particularly students, that proactive measures were being strengthened to prevent a recurrence, while commending students for choosing dialogue over protest.
In his remarks, the monarch condemned the incident, stressing that no girl child should be subjected to such an experience. He commended the police for their swift response and professionalism, as well as the students for maintaining calm.The royal father also directed that no festival or public gathering should henceforth be held in the kingdom without prior approval from the palace to prevent a recurrence. Also speaking, Ogorugba described the incident as unfortunate, clarifying that there is no such thing as a “rape festival” in Ozoro, but rather a cultural event that was hijacked by criminal elements.
He noted that key stakeholders were not adequately informed ahead of the event and assured that the state government would support the police in bringing perpetrators to justice. Reiterating the command’s commitment, the Commissioner said a dedicated Gender Desk remains active at the state headquarters to handle cases of sexual and gender-based violence, urging victims to come forward with assurances of confidentiality.
He called on members of the public to provide credible information to assist ongoing investigations, reaffirming the command’s resolve to ensure justice and maintain public safety.END.
