Nsukka, Enugu State – September 27, 2024 – The Enugu State Government has summoned traditional rulers and presidents-general from affected communities in Nsukka following the tragic deaths of two individuals during violent incidents involving Oriokpa masqueraders earlier this week.
The first incident occurred on Tuesday, September 24, along Aku Road in the Obechara area of Nsukka, where a middle-aged woman lost her life after being pursued by an Oriokpa masquerade.
Eyewitnesses reported that in her panic, she ran into the path of an oncoming truck, resulting in a fatal collision that sent shockwaves through the community. “The sight was horrifying; she didn’t stand a chance,” one witness recounted, highlighting the chaos that ensued.
A second victim, a male student from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN), died under unclear circumstances at Nru Junction. Details surrounding his death remain vague, prompting further concerns about the aggressive behavior of the masquerades.
In response to these incidents, the Enugu State Government has initiated an investigation into the activities of the Oriokpa masquerade groups. Okey Ogbodo, the state Commissioner for Local Government, Rural Development, and Chieftaincy Affairs, stated, “The government received reports on the untoward activities of Oriokpa masqueraders, which have reportedly caused pandemonium, bodily harm, and deaths in the area.”
Ogbodo announced a meeting for traditional rulers and presidents-general from the affected communities, emphasizing the urgency of the situation.
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In his statement, he said “Consequently, and following the express directive of His Excellency, the Governor of Enugu State, Dr Peter Mbah, the traditional rulers and Presidents-General of the town unions of the affected communities are hereby invited to meet with the Commissioner for Local Government, Rural Development and Chieftaincy Affairs, at the State Secretariat on Friday, September 27, 2024. Venue is the Office of the Honourable Commissioner, and time is 1 pm prompt.”
“The affected communities are Nguru, Isiakpu, Echara, Nru, Edem-Ezema, Iheagu, Ihe, Owere, and Umuoyo.
While commiserating with families of those said to have lost their lives in circumstances connected with the activities of the masquerades, the government also warned that it would not condone any further excesses by any persons or groups.
“Furthermore, the governor has equally directed the Commissioner of Police to immediately institute a full-scale investigation into the incidents, including the reported fatalities resulting from the activities of the said masquerade groups with a view to bringing whoever is culpable to book.”
““Meanwhile, the Enugu State Government frowns at the excesses by whatever any persons or groups. Our people should never be made to live in fear,” Ogbodo stated while expressing condolences to the families of the victims. “The rights and security of our women, children, youth, and every citizen of Enugu State must be guaranteed at all times.”
“Consequently, any such excesses by the Oriokpa masqueraders or any group for that matter will be met with the commensurate sanctions by the government,” the statement concluded.
The recent violence follows a troubling history of misconduct by the Oriokpa masquerades. Earlier this month, hundreds of women from Eha-Alumona protested against ongoing attacks and harassment by masquerades in their community. This unrest echoes a similar incident in April 2024 when a viral video revealed the brutal assault of a female nurse by the same group. The shocking footage prompted widespread condemnation and calls for accountability.
The aggressive actions of the Oriokpa masqueraders have raised alarms among residents. Mr. Okoro Nnadi, a local resident, voiced his frustration: “We can’t continue to live in fear of our own traditions. The government must take immediate action. We’ve lost too many innocent lives to this madness.”
As the state government takes steps to address the situation, community leaders and residents are advocating for stricter controls on masquerade activities, with some even calling for an outright ban until significant reforms are implemented.
