The Digest: Former Delta State Governor James Ibori has condemned the sexual harassment of women during the Aluedo festival in Ozoro while insisting that there is no "rape festival" in Isoko and Urhobo traditional practices. Speaking against the backdrop of last week's incident in Uruamudhu quarters, Ibori said traditional festivals in these ethnic nationalities are woven around spiritual values and sustained by strong moral principles. He commended security agencies for their intervention and pledged to work with the Vice Chancellor of Southern Delta University and traditional leaders to engage youths productively.
Key Points:
- Ibori's statement seeks to distinguish between the criminal actions of individuals and the cultural essence of Isoko and Urhobo traditions.
- The former governor's condemnation of the incident adds weight to calls for accountability while defending the integrity of local festivals.
- His promise to engage youths through the university and traditional institutions signals a commitment to preventive measures.
- The characterization of the incident as "condemnable" aligns with widespread outrage, while his defence of cultural values aims to protect the region's reputation.
- Ibori's intervention underscores the importance of traditional and institutional collaboration in addressing such incidents.
Sources: Vanguard News
