The Delta State Police Command has dismissed claims that the Alue-Do festival in Ozoro was a rape festival.
The Police Public Relations Officer in the state, Bright Edafe, said this Monday, during a TV interview that no victim has officially reported any rape case in connection with the incident and that investigations are guided strictly by evidence and witness statements.
Edafe, explained that the festival was not designed to promote sexual violence but was originally a traditional rite organised by a chief priest that is said to occur once every three or four years, and this is the first time such controversy has been recorded in Delta State.
The police have since arrested 15 suspects, including the community head and chief organiser of the festival.
The Delta State Government has also condemned the incident, saying that cultural practices cannot be used to justify criminal behaviour.
