Police authorities in Enugu State have apprehended three masqueraders in the Nsukka area following allegations of assault on residents. Daniel Ndukwe, the state police spokesperson, confirmed on Tuesday that police operatives, aided by community members, arrested the suspects on June 23. This action stems from a viral video that captured members of the ‘Oriokpa’ Masquerade group physically assaulting individuals on June 22. The suspects, along with others who are currently at large, reportedly exploited the ‘Oriokpa’ Masquerade celebration to inflict bodily injuries on several innocent members of the public, with one victim requiring hospitalization due to the severity of their injuries.

Initially, the masqueraders resisted arrest and fled the scene when police arrived. However, with the crucial assistance of law-abiding community members, the three suspects were successfully identified and apprehended. Superintendent of Police Ndukwe further stated that Mamman Giwa, the Commissioner of Police in Enugu, has ordered a comprehensive investigation into the incident to ensure that justice is served. Commissioner Giwa emphasized that masquerade celebrations, while a sacred and symbolic part of the nation’s culture, must not be exploited as a pretext for committing criminal acts. He issued a stern warning against using cultural festivities as a cover for instigating trouble and perpetrating crimes against citizens, specifically referencing the actions of the ‘Oriokpa’ masqueraders. The command has assured the public that all individuals involved in the assault on law-abiding citizens will be brought to justice.

In response to the incident, the Enugu State Government has declared its intent to “take decisive action to bring the menace to an end.” Ugochi Madueke, the state’s Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, issued a statement on Tuesday through the News Agency of Nigeria, condemning the acts. She asserted that the flogging, harassment, brutality, and extortion of residents by masqueraders are unacceptable and fundamentally contradict the true essence of the people’s culture. Commissioner Madueke underscored that masquerades are revered cultural figures, and their displays are expected to be conducted with dignity, ensuring the safety and protection of citizens’ rights.

The commissioner highlighted that the masqueraders’ conduct explicitly violated the stipulated conditions under which a previous ban on their activities had been lifted. She expressed deep disturbance and regret over the continuous abuse of this sacred tradition by some individuals, who have regrettably transformed cultural displays into opportunities for violence, intimidation, and extortion. This behavior, she noted, directly contravenes prior engagements between the government, stakeholders, and custodians of Nsukka tradition regarding the issue. Mrs. Madueke reiterated the government’s zero-tolerance policy for any cultural practices that endanger public safety or violate existing laws. She confirmed that the government is collaborating closely with law enforcement agencies to ensure the identification and prosecution of all those involved in the incident. Furthermore, a comprehensive review of the ‘Oriokpa’ masquerade’s activities will commence immediately, with the strong possibility of reinstating a fresh ban. Community leaders and cultural custodians have been urged to ensure that all cultural practices under their purview are conducted peacefully and safely for all citizens.