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By Oscar Okhifo
Former Delta State governor, Chief James Ibori, has dismissed social media claims of a “rape festival” among the Isoko and Urhobo communities, describing them as false and misleading.
He reaffirmed that the cultural festivals in the region are rooted in history, spirituality, and moral values.
Ibori, who hails from Oghara in Ethiope West Local Government Area and has extensive knowledge of Urhobo culture, emphasized on Tuesday via his X handle, that such claims do not reflect the true practices of the communities.
“I have generally refrained from intervening in public matters, but this issue is far too serious to ignore,” Ibori said.
“Having lived my entire life in Urhobo Land and served as governor for eight years, I can confidently say I have never heard of or witnessed such a festival.”
The former governor recounted his efforts to verify the claims, which had gained widespread attention on social media and beyond.
He emphasized that even the traditional authorities in Ozoro, the traditional seat of the Isoko people, confirmed that no such event has ever taken place.
He expressed disappointment that the reports had unfairly implicated the entire Isoko and Urhobo communities.
“Festivals among our people are rooted in history, spirituality, and moral values.
” They serve to memorialize past events and reinforce our cultural beliefs. The idea that there is a festival promoting violence or abuse is totally false,” Ibori asserted.
“One commentator even made a definitive pronouncement implicating the Ekene festival in orgies unleashed on girls and women. This is totally untrue. Festivals among Urhobo and Isoko people, apart from being celebratory, are woven around historical and spiritual motifs.
“They memorialize past events, reinforce belief systems, and are typically anchored in an essence sustained by strong moral values.
“What happened is condemnable, and it is commendable that security agencies have now intervened to unravel what really transpired. It is my hope that this investigation will set the record straight: there is no “rape festival” among Urhobo and Isoko people.”
He further called on security agencies to investigate the matter thoroughly, hoping to clear the air and correct misconceptions.
Ibori also pledged to work with university authorities and traditional leaders to engage youth and reinforce respect for cultural norms and the dignity of women.
“I want to make it clear: there is no such ‘rape festival’ among the Urhobo and Isoko people. We will ensure that actions that undermine our values are not tolerated,” he declared.
The Delta State Police and other security agencies have begun investigations into the incident, which reportedly occurred during the Alue-do festival in the Uruamudhu community of Ozoro Kingdom.
So far, about fifteen people, including the festival organizer, have been arrested in connection with the incident.