Dare Babalola
The Delta State Police Command has rejected widespread claims that the controversial Alue-Do festival in Ozoro was a “rape festival,” insisting that no victim has formally reported rape in connection with the incident.
Police spokesperson, Bright Edafe, made this known on Monday during an appearance on Channels Television’s The Morning Brief, where he clarified that investigations so far do not support the allegations circulating online.
“It is important to state clearly that among the four girls that were interviewed yesterday, no one— not one of them— said they were raped. Up till this very moment, we have not had any official reports that anybody was raped,” Edafe stated.
He emphasized that the police rely strictly on evidence and witness testimonies in determining the nature of any crime.
“The law does not work on emotions; it works on available evidence and statements of witnesses. Since we do not have any witness claiming rape and there is no supporting evidence, sexual assault is what we are investigating,” he added.
Edafe further explained that the festival itself was not intended to promote sexual violence but originated as a traditional fertility rite led by a chief priest for women seeking children.
However, he noted that the event was poorly organized, with key stakeholders—including the traditional ruler, school authorities, and the police—not informed beforehand. This lapse, he said, contributed to the breakdown of order.
According to him, the chief priest is currently in police custody, as his negligence allegedly created an environment that allowed hoodlums to exploit the gathering and carry out acts of sexual harassment.
The incident triggered nationwide outrage after disturbing videos surfaced online showing women being harassed and assaulted in public, prompting many to label the event a “rape festival.” Community leaders, however, argued that criminal elements hijacked what was meant to be a cultural gathering.
Police have since arrested 15 suspects, including the chief organiser and community head, while the Delta State Government has condemned the incident and banned the festival.
The Ozoro Kingdom Palace also distanced itself from the violence, describing the actions captured in viral videos as unacceptable and inconsistent with the community’s values. While acknowledging the cultural significance of the festival, the palace stressed that tradition must never be used to justify abuse or misconduct.
The case has now been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department for further investigation.
