March 22, 2026 | SUNTV Global Channel
Tension has gripped Ozoro, headquarters of Isoko North Local Government Area, as female students of Delta State University reportedly flee the community following shocking assaults linked to a controversial traditional festival.
The incident, which occurred during the ‘Alue-Do’ festival, sparked nationwide outrage after disturbing viral videos showed young women being chased, stripped, and assaulted by groups of youths.
Sources within the university community revealed that many female students, traumatised by the attacks and fearing a recurrence, have begun leaving the area in large numbers.
A student leader, who spoke anonymously, described the situation as deeply unsettling.
“Most of the female students are scared, especially as the festival is expected to last for several days. Many left early today, and others are still leaving,” the source said.
The student leader also alleged that some students were involved in the attacks, describing the development as both shocking and disappointing.
“It is not only indigenes; some students also participated. This reflects a disturbing level of moral decline,” he added, calling for strict prosecution of all perpetrators.
Meanwhile, the Delta State Police Command has intensified its crackdown, arresting 11 additional suspects and bringing the total number in custody to 15.
Police spokesperson Bright Edafe confirmed that the arrests were made following directives from the Commissioner of Police, Aina Adesola.
According to him, intelligence analysis and viral video evidence helped identify several suspects, including Samson Atukpodo, Steven Ovie, Ugbevo Samson, Afoke Akporobaro, and Evidence Oguname.
He stressed that the attacks were carried out by criminal elements who took advantage of the festival to perpetrate violence.
“The command condemns these acts in totality and remains committed to ensuring all those involved are brought to justice,” Edafe stated.
The incident has drawn widespread condemnation across the country. The Nigerian Bar Association described the assaults as “a national disgrace,” stressing that no cultural practice can justify violence against women.
In a joint statement by its President, Afam Osigwe, and Chairperson of the NBA Women Forum, Huwaila Muhammad, the association warned:
“A society reveals its true character in how it treats its women. What we witnessed is not culture but barbarity.”
Similarly, the Nigeria Federation of Business and Professional Women has petitioned Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, calling for the suspension of traditional rulers in Ozoro and the establishment of an independent panel to investigate the incident.
As fear continues to spread, many students remain uncertain about returning to campus, with growing calls for stronger security measures and accountability within the community.
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