Police Confirm No Victims Reported After Delta Fertility Festival

Authorities in Delta State have responded to widespread uproar over reports that an annual cultural event in Ozoro encouraged sexual violence, clarifying that no formal rape complaints have been filed with police.

The Delta State Police Command dismissed online claims describing the Alue‑Do festival as a “rape festival,” saying there have been no official reports from any alleged victim. Officials explained that while several young women were interviewed, none told investigators they had been raped.

Police spokesman SP Bright Edafe said investigations focus strictly on verifiable evidence and witness testimonies, and stressed that claims of organised rape are not supported by current findings. He acknowledged, however, that the event lacked required approvals from key local authorities, including the traditional ruler and police, and that some attendees behaved criminally by sexually harassing women.

The police have arrested at least 15 people connected with the disturbances, including the festival’s lead organiser, and have transferred the case to the State Criminal Investigation Department for further action.

Community leaders and government officials have condemned the misconduct and emphasised that the festival’s intended purpose — a traditional fertility rite — was not meant to condone any form of abuse.

Meanwhile, videos of the incident circulating online have sparked demonstrations in other parts of Nigeria and intensified calls for deeper investigations and accountability.