The leadership of Ozoro Kingdom wishes to address the general public and correct the wrong impression circulating on social media regarding events that occurred on Thursday, 19th March 2026.
Ozoro Kingdom is made up of five traditional communities, each with its distinct customs, traditions, and festivals. On the said date, Uruamudhu Community celebrated one of its ancient festivals known as the Alue-Do Festival.
The Alue-Do Festival is traditionally regarded as a festival of fertility. It is widely believed to be a cultural practice that brings blessings of children to individuals or couples experiencing difficulty in childbirth. As part of this long-standing tradition, certain symbolic practices are observed, including the act of playfully dragging and pouring sand on married individuals who are yet to have children, as a cultural expression believed to invoke fertility.
However, it has come to our attention that some youths misinterpreted and misapplied this cultural practice in a negative and unacceptable manner, leading to the harassment of some young women.
We wish to clearly state that reports circulating on social media alleging that rape and widespread atrocities occurred during the festival are false and misleading. No incidents of rape were recorded. The situation involved the harassment of two young women by individuals who took advantage of the occasion to act irresponsibly. The leadership of the Ozoro Kingdom immediately contacted the security agencies who brought the situation under control and are conducting their investigations.
The leadership of Ozoro Kingdom strongly condemns any form of harassment or misconduct. Such behaviour is not part of our culture and traditions and will not be tolerated. Appropriate steps are being taken to address the actions of those involved and to ensure that future celebrations are conducted in a peaceful, respectful, and orderly manner.
We urge the public to disregard false reports and refrain from spreading misinformation that may tarnish the image of our cherished cultural heritage.
Signed,
Odio (Chief) Berkley Asiafa
President General
Ozoro Kingdom
Prince Obaro Egware
Secretary General
Ozoro Kingdom
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