Ozoro Festival: Monarch Condemns Violence Against Women, Distances Self from Abuse Allegations
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Ozoro Palace Condemns Violence Against Women, Rejects Festival Abuse Allegations
The Palace of Ozoro Kingdom in Delta State has condemned violence against women and distanced the monarchy from abuse linked to the 2026 Alue-Do fertility festival, following widespread public outrage over viral footage showing harassment of female attendees.
Ejes Gist News reports that the backlash intensified after videos circulated online depicting groups of men intimidating and assaulting women during the cultural event, prompting allegations on social media that the gathering had devolved into organised abuse.
Palace Denies Endorsement of Abuse
In an official statement issued and signed by His Royal Majesty, Anthony Ovietoboro, Ogbogbo Ibuka I (JP), the Ovie of Ozoro Kingdom, the Palace described the reported incidents involving two young women as “deeply regrettable, unacceptable, and entirely inconsistent” with the traditions and values of the Ozoro Kingdom and the wider Isoko nation.
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The statement rejected claims that any form of sexual violence or coercion was sanctioned by the traditional institution.
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“For the avoidance of doubt, the Palace firmly dissociates itself from any narrative suggesting that such reprehensible acts, including allegations of rape or widespread atrocities, were endorsed, sanctioned, or tolerated by the Kingdom.”
The Palace warned that unverified claims circulating online risk inciting unrest and undermining the cultural integrity of the community.
Cultural Context of the Alue-Do Festival
Providing clarification, the Palace stated that Ozoro Kingdom comprises five autonomous communities with distinct customs and traditions. It identified the Uruamudhu community as the host of the Alue-Do festival observed on March 19, 2026.
According to the statement, the festival is historically rooted in fertility rites intended to confer blessings on married women seeking children. The Palace acknowledged the presence of symbolic rituals but emphasised that such practices must not be misinterpreted or exploited.
It stressed:
- Cultural rites do not permit harassment or coercion
- Personal dignity and human rights remain paramount
- Any deviation constitutes a breach of both tradition and law
“The Palace makes it abundantly clear that any individual or group who exploits cultural gatherings as a cover for misconduct, lawlessness, or criminal behaviour stands in direct violation of both our cultural ethos and the laws of the land,” the statement added.
Police Action and Ongoing Investigation
The Palace expressed support for law enforcement agencies investigating the incident and called for accountability.
It urged authorities to ensure a thorough probe and prosecution of offenders to serve as a deterrent.
Security developments include:
- The Delta State Police Command confirmed the arrest of 15 suspects
- Those detained include the community head and chief organiser, Omorede Sunday
- The case has been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department
Government Response and Festival Ban
The Delta State Government has also issued a formal condemnation, reiterating that no cultural practice can justify acts of violence or abuse.
Authorities have imposed a ban on the Alue-Do festival pending the outcome of investigations.
Public Advisory and Media Responsibility
The Palace called on the public and media organisations to verify information before publication, warning against the spread of misinformation capable of escalating tensions.
It reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding cultural heritage while ensuring that all public events within the kingdom are conducted in a safe, orderly, and respectful environment.
Community leaders have maintained that the festival’s original intent was non-violent, asserting that criminal elements hijacked the gathering to perpetrate unlawful acts.
