The Delta State Police Command has dismissed claims that the controversial Alue-Do festival in Ozoro was a “rape festival,” maintaining that no victim has officially reported rape in connection with the incident.
The Police Public Relations Officer, Bright Edafe, made this known on Monday during an interview on Channels Television’s The Morning Brief, stressing that none of the four girls interviewed alleged rape and that investigations are strictly evidence-based.
TheFact Daily reports that the Alue-Do festival, traditionally held in Ozoro every three to four years,and a cultural fertility rite organised by a chief priest and intended to offer prayers for women seeking children, on Friday last week, sparked nationwide outrage after viral videos showed mobs harassing women in broad daylight, with community leaders blaming hoodlums for hijacking the event.
Edafe explained that while no rape has been established, the police are investigating cases of sexual assault based on available testimonies and evidence. He added that due process was ignored in organising the event, as the traditional ruler, school authorities, students’ union, and the police were not informed beforehand.
He noted that the chief priest is currently in custody over what he described as negligence that led to the breakdown of order and the assault of several women during the gathering.
Authorities say this is the first time the event has drawn such widespread controversy in Delta State.
Meanwhile, the police have arrested 15 suspects, the state government has banned the festival, and the case has been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department as investigations continue.
