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Ozoro Kingdom Pushes Back On Viral Festival Claims, Admits Harassment, Denies Rape
The leadership of Ozoro Kingdom has moved to counter what it describes as a wave of misleading reports circulating online over incidents that occurred during a traditional festival last Thursday.
In a statement issued by its President General, Chief Berkley Asiafa, and Secretary General, Prince Obaro Egware, the kingdom acknowledged that misconduct took place during the Alue-Do Festival held on March 19, 2026, but firmly rejected claims that rape or widespread atrocities occurred.
Ozoro Kingdom, comprising five distinct traditional communities, explained that the festival was hosted by Uruamudhu Community as part of its long-standing cultural calendar. The Alue-Do Festival, the statement noted, is historically associated with fertility rites and symbolic practices believed to invoke blessings for childless couples.
Central to the controversy is a traditional act in which married individuals without children are playfully dragged and covered with sand—an age-old ritual said to carry spiritual significance. However, the leadership admitted that some youths exploited the occasion, straying from cultural boundaries and engaging in acts that resulted in the harassment of two young women.
“There were no cases of rape,” the statement stressed, describing such claims as false and damaging. It added that security agencies were promptly alerted and have since taken control of the situation, with investigations ongoing.
While defending the integrity of the festival, the kingdom did not shy away from condemning the actions of those involved. It described the behaviour as unacceptable and inconsistent with the values and traditions of the people.
The leadership also pledged that those responsible would be held accountable and that measures are being put in place to prevent a recurrence, ensuring that future festivals are conducted with respect and order.
The statement urged the public to exercise caution in sharing unverified reports, warning that misinformation could erode the reputation of longstanding cultural practices.
The incident has once again stirred debate over the place of certain traditional rites in a rapidly changing society—where culture, scrutiny, and modern sensibilities increasingly collide.
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