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

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