Just when it seemed Anambra state is about to breathe a fresh air of peace and calmness, another tragic incident occurs.
After many years of battling masquerade brutality in places like Awka, Oko and other big towns in the state, it seemed the end to such ugly incident is not yet in sight.
However, the annual “Nwafor Ogidi” masquerade festival which took place over the week took a tragic turn following the death of a young man simply identified as Emeka, said to have been stabbed by a masquerade.
WITHIN NIGERIA gathered that the incident happened after the victim failed to give out money to the masquerade.
The incident, which reportedly occurred during the annual cultural celebration in Ogidi, Idemili North Local Government Area of Anambra State left many residents terrified and anxious in the community.
Our reporter also gathered that the incident has sparked widespread outrage and renewed concerns over public safety during traditional festivals.
WITHIN NIGERIA source revealed that the victim was allegedly attacked with a dagger after an altercation over money demanded by the masquerade.
Emeka was also said to have sustained fatal injuries and as a result died few hours after the attack.
One of the residents Cosmas Obidigwe told WITHIN NIGERIA that “the incident has raised serious questions about security arrangements and the conduct of some masquerade groups during cultural festivals.
“There are reports of sexual harassment, intimidation and extortion of residents and visitors.
“This is indeed the worst Nwafor Ogidi festival in decades. We have witnessed cases of masquerade brutality but we have not seen death during the festival.”
However, reacting to the development, many residents have called on Anambra State Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Charles Soludo, to order a thorough investigation into the incident and ensure that anyone found culpable is brought to justice.
“No cultural festival should become a death sentence for anyone. Traditions must be celebrated within the confines of the law, and every life must be protected,” a resident said.
The incident has also reignited debate over the need for stricter regulation of masquerade activities during public festivals.
“Similarly, masquerades or any individuals who assault, intimidate, extort or unlawfully obstruct public roads may be liable for criminal prosecution, as cultural traditions do not override the provisions of the Constitution or Nigeria’s criminal laws.
Ogidi residents are of the opinion that Anambra State Government, security agencies and traditional authorities to review existing guidelines governing masquerade outings to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
As at press time, the Anambra State Police Command had not issued an official statement on the incident, and the full identity of the victim is not yet known.
At the same time, the community said they are already looking for the masquerade that allegedly committed the atrocity.
