The Delta State Police Command has dismissed claims that the recent Alue-Do festival in Ozoro was a “rape festival,” clarifying that no official reports of rape have been received.
Police Public Relations Officer Bright Edafe told Channels Television’s The Morning Brief on Monday that investigations so far show no evidence of rape. “Among the four girls interviewed yesterday, not one reported being raped. Up till this moment, we have no official reports of sexual assault linked to the festival,” Edafe stated. He emphasized that police actions are guided strictly by evidence and witness accounts, not speculation.
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Edafe explained that the Alue-Do festival, traditionally led by a chief priest, is intended as a spiritual rite to pray for women seeking children. “It was not a rape festival. The purpose was to pray for barren women seeking the fruit of the womb,” he said. However, he noted that the event was poorly coordinated, as the traditional ruler, school authorities, and police were not informed beforehand. The chief priest is currently in custody due to negligence that allowed some attendees to harass girls during the gathering.
The police spokesperson also urged parents and guardians to remain vigilant and protect children from harm. While the festival is held every three to four years, this year’s event gained notoriety after videos circulated online showing harassment, prompting public outrage.
Authorities stressed that sexual assault investigations will proceed where evidence exists, but no confirmed cases have emerged from the Ozoro incident.
