The Anambra State Police Command has arrested a masquerade suspected of launching unprovoked attacks on residents during a festival, causing public panic in Awgbu, Orumba North Local Government Area.
Video clips circulating online showed the masquerade chasing people, toppling motorcycles, destroying equipment, and disrupting a public event. Some supporters were also seen throwing chairs, tables, and sachets of water, escalating the violence.
The incident reportedly occurred over the weekend during the final Ofala Festival of the late traditional ruler of Awgbu, Igwe M. C. Okechukwu (Ezedioramma II, Ezekanunu III).
Reacting to the development, the Police Command’s spokesman, Tochukwu Ikenga, said on Wednesday, “The Anambra State Police Command has taken into custody the masquerade involved in the unprovoked and violent attacks on innocent citizens. The behaviour, as seen in the viral video, is totally unacceptable, unlawful, and will not be tolerated under any guise. Investigations are ongoing to ensure that all those involved are brought to justice.”
This arrest comes after a similar case in February 2025, when a masquerader named “Nweke” was declared wanted for allegedly killing a 71-year-old man during a festival in Umuawulu, Awka South LGA.
The state Commissioner for Culture, Entertainment and Tourism, Don Onyenji, warned that masquerades must follow the 2022 state law, which confines performances to designated areas and prohibits obstruction of roads or endangerment of lives.
“Masquerading is a cultural practice meant for entertainment, not violence,” he said.
