The Delta State Police Command has dismissed claims that a recent festival in Ozoro was a “rape festival,” saying no official reports of rape have been received.
Police spokesperson SP Bright Edafe made this known during a television interview, following public outrage over viral videos showing women being harassed at the event.
“It is important to state clearly that… no one, not one of them, said they were raped,” Edafe said, adding that “up till this very moment, we have not had any official reports that anybody was raped.”
He explained that investigations are based on evidence and witness statements. “The law does not work on emotions; the law works on available evidence,” he said, noting that the police are investigating allegations of sexual assault.
Edafe also clarified that the Alue-Do festival was not intended to promote violence.
“It was not a rape festival. It was a festival organised by a chief priest to pray for barren women,” he said.
However, he admitted that the event was poorly organised, as authorities were not informed in advance.
He said the chief priest is in custody because “his negligence has led to… the sexual assault of these innocent girls.”
The incident has sparked nationwide concern after videos showed men attacking and harassing women in public.
Police have arrested at least 15 suspects, while the state government has banned the festival.
Authorities say investigations are ongoing, and anyone with credible evidence is urged to come forward.
