The leadership of Ozoro Kingdom in Isoko North Local Government Area of Delta State has described as false and misleading media reports of rape during the Alue-Do Festival held on March 19, 2026
This clarification was made in a statement issued and signed by Chief Berkley Asiafa, President General of Ozoro Kingdom, and Prince Obaro Egware, Secretary General of Ozoro Kingdom, respectively, in reaction to social media reports of alleged rape and widespread sexual atrocities that occurred during the festival.
While the kingdom denied the allegation of rape during the festival as claimed in media reports, it however, admitted that two young women were harassed by unscrupulous individuals who took the opportunity of the occasion to act irresponsibly.
The community leaders explained that the Alue-Do Festival is traditionally regarded as a festival of fertility, and is a cultural practice that brings blessings of children to individuals or couples experiencing difficulty in childbirth.
They said Ozoro Kingdom is made up of five traditional communities, each with its distinct customs, traditions, and festivals, adding that the Alue-Do Festival is an ancient festival celebrated by the Uruamudhu Community, one of the five communities that make up the kingdom.
As part of this long-standing tradition, the statement said, certain symbolic practices are observed, including the act of playfully dragging and pouring sand on married individuals who are yet to have children, as a cultural expression believed to invoke fertility.
“However, it has come to our attention that some youths misinterpreted and misapplied this cultural practice in a negative and unacceptable manner, leading to the harassment of some young women.
“We wish to clearly state that reports circulating on social media alleging that rape, and widespread atrocities occurred during the festival are false and misleading.
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“No incidents of rape were recorded. The situation involved the harassment of two young women by individuals who took advantage of the occasion to act irresponsibly,” the community leaders said.
Furthermore, the statement disclosed that the leadership of the Ozoro Kingdom on becoming aware of the harassment of the two women, immediately contacted the security agencies who brought the situation under control and are conducting their investigations.
“The leadership of Ozoro Kingdom strongly condemns any form of harassment or misconduct. Such behavior is not part of our culture and traditions and will not be tolerated.
“Appropriate steps are being taken to address the actions of those involved and to ensure that future celebrations are conducted in a peaceful, respectful, and orderly manner.
“We urge the public to disregard false reports and refrain from spreading misinformation that may tarnish the image of our cherished cultural heritage,” the statement said.
