Ozoro Festival Controversy: 15 Suspects Arrested, Community Denies Rape Claims - Newstrends
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Ozoro Festival Controversy: 15 Suspects Arrested, Community Denies Rape Claims

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Festival of Fertility in Ozoro

Ozoro Festival Controversy: 15 Suspects Arrested, Community Denies Rape Claims

The Nigeria Police Force has arrested 15 suspects over alleged harassment and sexual assault of women during the Alue-Do Festival in Ozoro, following widespread outrage sparked by viral videos on social media.

The Delta State Police Command confirmed that 11 additional suspects were apprehended, bringing the total number in custody to 15. Police spokesperson Bright Edafe said preliminary findings indicate that the acts were carried out by criminal elements who exploited the festival environment, and are not reflective of the community’s cultural practices.

According to the police, operatives of the CP Special Assignment Team (CP-SAT), acting on the directive of the Commissioner of Police, Aina Adesola, conducted a detailed review of video evidence and intelligence, leading to the arrests. Authorities have urged victims and witnesses to come forward, assuring that all information will be handled confidentially as investigations continue.

Meanwhile, leaders of Ozoro Kingdom have rejected claims circulating online that the festival involved rape, describing such reports as false and misleading. In a statement by President-General Berkley Asiafa and Secretary-General Obaro Egware, the community explained that the Alue-Do Festival is a traditional fertility festival involving symbolic cultural practices.

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They acknowledged that some youths misinterpreted and misapplied these traditions, resulting in the harassment of a few women, but insisted that no cases of rape were recorded. The community condemned the misconduct and pledged to take steps to ensure future celebrations are conducted in a safe and orderly manner.

The Delta State Government also condemned the incident, warning that cultural festivals must not be used as a cover for criminal acts. Commissioner for Works (Rural Roads) and Public Information, Charles Aniagwu, described the development as disturbing and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to protecting the rights and dignity of women.

He called on law enforcement agencies to ensure all those involved are brought to justice, while urging community leaders and festival organisers to implement stronger safeguards to prevent a recurrence.

The incident has reignited national concerns about gender-based violence in Nigeria, with advocacy groups demanding accountability and stricter enforcement of laws such as the Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Act.

As investigations continue, authorities maintain that efforts are focused on ensuring justice for victims, addressing misinformation, and preventing future abuse linked to public gatherings.

Ozoro Festival Controversy: 15 Suspects Arrested, Community Denies Rape Claims

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Eko Bridge carriageway shuts Sunday as FG begins emergency repairs

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Eko Bridge carriageway shuts Sunday as FG begins emergency repairs

 

The Federal Government has ordered the closure of one entire carriageway of the Eko Bridge in Lagos beginning from midnight on Sunday, May 9, to allow for emergency repair works on the ageing structure.

Minister of Works, David Umahi, announced the closure on Wednesday during the handover of the Carter Bridge rehabilitation project to China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation in Lagos.

Umahi said the affected carriageway would be completely shut to traffic while vehicles would be diverted to the remaining section of the bridge.

“By the midnight of this coming Sunday, that full carriageway must be closed. The other carriageway will be working,” he said.

The minister directed officials of the Federal Ministry of Works to collaborate with the Lagos State Government on traffic management and public awareness campaigns to reduce the impact of the closure on commuters.

“I am directing the director of bridges and the controller of works in Lagos to liaise with Lagos State Government and mount campaign of awareness and see if we can get an alternative route.

“We will not allow people to endanger their lives. We are a responsible administration,” Umahi added.

He explained that the emergency work would involve lifting an entire span of the damaged section of the bridge to address structural defects discovered beneath the surface.

According to him, engineers will expose the pier and pier cap before carrying out piling works, strengthening the pier cap and replacing damaged piles supporting the bridge.

“The best solution is that we are going to be lifting a whole span of the affected section,” he said.

Umahi disclosed that the government had also engaged Buildwell Construction and divers to conduct a detailed investigation of the damaged components to guide the final repair design.

He directed that the assessment should be completed within 10 days.

The minister apologised to Lagos residents over the inconvenience the closure would cause, saying the current administration inherited many of the structural problems affecting the bridge infrastructure.

“When we came on board, some sections of Eko Bridge were totally burned down because people were staying under the bridge selling chemicals and all sorts of wares,” he said.

He added that rehabilitation efforts previously stalled due to funding challenges but received renewed support under the administration of President Bola Tinubu.

Umahi also assured Nigerians that the Federal Government would soon commence major reinforcement work on the Third Mainland Bridge following multiple structural investigations.

According to him, an external expert has been invited to review previous assessments and design strengthening measures for deteriorating piers and other damaged sections of the bridge.

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VIDEO: Sisi Alagbo Secures Endorsement Deal After Viral Threesome Video Controversy

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Eniola Sisi Alagbo and her husband Akeem Adesola
Eniola Sisi Alagbo and her husband Akeem Adesola

VIDEO: Sisi Alagbo Secures Endorsement Deal After Viral Threesome Video Controversy

Popular herbal vendor and social media personality Eniola Sisialagbo has reportedly secured a new endorsement deal just days after she trended online over a viral private bedroom video controversy that sparked widespread reactions across social media. The development follows days of intense online discussions after a clip surfaced showing a private moment involving Sisialagbo, her husband Eniola Fagbemi (Akeem Adesola), and another woman. In the footage, Sisialagbo was seen recording the encounter, which quickly spread across social platforms and generated significant public attention.

The viral video triggered heavy backlash online, with many users questioning her personal conduct and public image as a herbal wellness brand promoter. Following the circulation of the clip, Sisialagbo issued an emotional public apology to her mother, family members, fellow herb sellers, and Nigerians at large, expressing regret over the incident and asking for forgiveness. She also reportedly said the situation affected her emotionally, as she struggled with the pressure and attention that followed the controversy.

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Her husband also reacted publicly to the incident, taking responsibility for the situation and describing it as regrettable and embarrassing. His response added further attention to the already trending topic, which continued to dominate conversations across social media platforms for several days.

In a new development on May 6, 2026, a video circulating online reportedly showed Sisialagbo securing a new endorsement deal with a company identified as NWC Education, a firm said to specialise in visa processing and study-abroad support services. The clip has since attracted renewed online attention, with users debating the timing of the endorsement in relation to the recent controversy.

Although the endorsement has not been independently verified by all parties involved, reports suggest the deal is centred on promoting education and international study opportunities for prospective applicants. The development has continued to generate mixed reactions online, with some users describing it as a sign of resilience, while others argue it raises questions about public perception and brand association.

Despite the controversy, Sisialagbo has remained active on social media, continuing to engage with followers and share content as discussions around her personal life and professional brand continue to trend.

VIDEO: Sisi Alagbo Secures Endorsement Deal After Viral Threesome Video Controversy

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Osun Rewards 31 Top WAEC Students With Scholarships, Cash

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WAEC Releases 2026 WASSCE Timetable for School Candidates 

Osun Rewards 31 Top WAEC Students With Scholarships, Cash

The Osun State Government, in partnership with consulting firm Electronic Collections Group (ECG), has rewarded 31 outstanding students from the 2025 West African Examinations Council (WAEC) examination with scholarships and cash prizes at the maiden Imole SSCE Scholarship Award Ceremony. The event, held on Wednesday at the Olagunsoye Oyinlola Hall, Osun State University, Osogbo, was organised by ECG in collaboration with the Osun State Ministry of Education. It also featured recognition for teachers and schools whose students performed exceptionally well, with educational materials and cash gifts distributed as part of the award package.

Each of the best students from Osun’s 30 local government areas received ₦100,000, while the overall best student was awarded ₦1 million. Teachers who taught the students across the nine WAEC subjects were also recognised, with each receiving ₦50,000, while their respective schools benefited from educational support packages aimed at improving learning facilities and academic performance. Officials said the initiative was designed to promote academic excellence, reward hard work, and strengthen competition among students in public secondary schools across the state.

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Governor Ademola Adeleke, who addressed students, teachers, school administrators, and local government chairmen at the ceremony, said the programme was aimed at raising a generation that would be guided by knowledge and purpose. “To our awardees, you are that light. But your light must shine beyond this stage, into your future,” the governor said. He commended teachers, education officials, and administrators for their role in shaping students’ character and academic success, noting that his administration remains committed to recognising excellence from the grassroots to higher levels.

Adeleke also stated that Osun’s education performance had improved since he assumed office, claiming that the state moved from lower rankings to 7th position nationally in education performance within his first year. He said, “The education policy of the governor is working despite the challenges,” adding that his administration will continue to prioritise education development across all levels.

The governor also used the occasion to caution residents against vote buying ahead of the August 15 governorship election in Osun State. He alleged that some political actors were attempting to influence voters with money and urged citizens to reject inducements. “Osun is at an unusual time ahead of the August 15 election. Those who hijacked and diverted over ₦300 billion Osun local government funds are desperate,” he said. He added, “I charge Osun people to reject Greek gifts, to shun proceeds of crime and use their votes to sustain continuity.”

Coordinator of ECG, Akinmade Akintoye, said the scholarship initiative would become an annual programme aimed at encouraging academic excellence among students and teachers across Osun State. He urged schools to remain committed to nurturing future leaders despite societal distractions. “We implore schools not to relent. This is just their stepping stone; the sky is going to be their limit,” he said. Organisers also confirmed that the list of award recipients was obtained directly from the WAEC headquarters, ensuring transparency and credibility in the selection process.

Osun Rewards 31 Top WAEC Students With Scholarships, Cash

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