Prominent legal practitioner Chukwudi Enebeli, SAN, has issued a scathing condemnation of reported multiple rape incidents in Ozoro, describing the acts as “barbaric” and a “grave affront to human dignity.”
In a statement released this week, seen by Securitynewsalert.com, the Senior Advocate of Nigeria reacted to disturbing reports of women being sexually assaulted and molested in public. He slammed any attempt to shield these acts behind the veil of tradition, insisting that criminality cannot be rebranded as culture.
Addressing the circulating accounts that suggest these assaults occurred under the guise of communal festivities, Enebeli was unequivocal:
“The reports circulating accounts of women being sexually assaulted and molested in public under the guise of any tradition or belief is a grave affront to human dignity, public safety, and the rule of law. Let it be stated clearly: this can never be considered culture. It is criminality.”
He further emphasised that such behaviour is an anomaly in the state, asserting that any attempt to excuse or justify these actions as part of a “festival” or communal activity is dangerous and inconsistent with the standards of any civilised society.
The legal expert called on the Delta State Government and the Nigeria Police Force to initiate an immediate and transparent crackdown on those responsible. Enebeli warned against the “quiet settlements” that often plague such cases in local communities, noting that silence and suppression only embolden perpetrators and never deter them.
He demanded that a thorough investigation be carried out to ensure that all perpetrators are brought to book, regardless of their social status or how highly placed they may be. He stressed that the matter must not be swept under the carpet or unnecessarily prolonged, as swift action is required to restore public safety.
Beyond legal prosecution, Enebeli is calling for a broader societal reckoning, challenging traditional institutions and local leaders to take a firm stand. He noted that a community that tolerates such acts, whether through silence or indifference, risks normalising lawlessness and endangering its most vulnerable members.
“Sexual violence not only leaves deep physical and psychological scars on victims and their families, but it also erodes the moral fabric of society. We must continue to protect the rights and dignity of all persons, particularly women and the girl child.”
The Senior Advocate concluded by urging the state government to use this incident to send a definitive message that such sexual violence is unacceptable and will not be tolerated anywhere within Delta State. #Securitynewsalert.com
