It is with a heavy heart that I write this petition. Simply put, we cannot continue to let such disgraceful events as the so-called "rape festival" occur in Ozoro, Delta State, Nigeria. I am pained to wake up to the terrifying news that in 2026, such an event was sanctioned where women were forced to stay off the streets from 12pm to avoid assault. Videos circulate of these inhumane acts, showing helpless women being dragged and assaulted in broad daylight.

This cannot become the fabric of our society. It is outrageous that any form of disclaimer or declaration made in the guise of tradition or cultural activity be allowed to perpetrate such damage and endangerment to women. As a society, we must assert that every human has the unrestricted right to go about their lives without fear, especially for something as heinous as rape.

We shouldn't, for any reason, normalize a culture of fear and subjugation, where gathering in the name of tradition allows for violation of human rights so easily. Events like this violate not only our moral convictions but also every law of decency and human rights. Fearful, terrorized voices filled the streets during that horrendous event, a sound no one should ever be subjected to.

Each of us has a responsibility to ensure this is a turning point, not only in Ozoro but across the world, where any form of sexually-based aggression against women is met with zero tolerance. The authorities, policymakers, and community leaders must be held accountable, and stakeholders must take decisive action to abolish such harmful practices.

The removal of this festival is non-negotiable to safeguard the lives of women and maintain their dignity. I urge law enforcement agencies to act firmly in preventing these occurrences in future. Social and educational initiatives need to be launched in these communities to break down harmful stereotypes and promote gender equality at every level of society.

Join me in demanding immediate and decisive action against this exacerbating threat to safety and humanity. Together, we can put an end to this atrocity and ensure that no woman has to bear such an ordeal again. Your voice counts, sign this petition to make a difference. Your action today could prevent another day of distress tomorrow.