The Anambra State Police Command has arrested a masquerade accused of unleashing violent, unprovoked attacks on residents of Awgbu community in Orumba North Local Government Area, following a viral video that sparked widespread outrage.
The suspect was apprehended after footage circulated online showing the masquerade chasing passers-by, attacking motorcyclists and disrupting a public event, thereby throwing the community into panic.
The incident occurred during the Ofala festival held in honour of the late traditional ruler of Awgbu, Igwe M. C. Okechukwu (Ezedioramma II, Ezekanunu III), over the weekend.
Video clips captured the masquerade forcefully pushing riders off motorcycles, pursuing residents indiscriminately and destroying public equipment, while some followers cheered and actively supported the attacks.
In one disturbing scene, the masquerade was seen knocking down an elderly man riding a motorcycle.
Another clip showed a separate incident in which an aged man reportedly fell from a moving motorcycle and struck his head against a parked vehicle.
Supporters accompanying the masquerade were also observed hurling plastic chairs, tables and sachet water at attendees during the public function, further escalating the violence and endangering lives.
Confirming the arrest in a statement on Wednesday, the Police Public Relations Officer, Tochukwu Ikenga, described the actions of the masquerade as unlawful and unacceptable, stressing that such conduct would not be tolerated.
“The Anambra State Police Command wishes to inform members of the public that the masquerade involved in the unprovoked and violent attacks on innocent citizens in Awgbu has been taken into custody,” Ikenga said.
“The conduct displayed in the viral video is totally unacceptable and constitutes a clear breach of public peace. Investigations are ongoing to apprehend all other persons involved in the incident,” he added.
The police spokesman assured residents that those found culpable would be prosecuted in accordance with the law.
The incident has revived concerns over violent masquerade displays in the state. In February 2025, the Anambra State Government declared a masquerader identified as Nweke wanted over the alleged killing of a 71-year-old man, Shedrack Okoye, during a masquerade outing in Umuawulu community, Awka South Local Government Area.
At the time, the Commissioner for Culture, Entertainment and Tourism, Don Onyenji, warned that such acts violated the state’s 2022 masquerade law, which restricts masquerade activities to designated arenas during festivals.
Onyenji emphasised that masquerades must not obstruct movement, block roads or cause public disturbances, noting that the cultural practice was meant to promote entertainment and heritage—not violence.
'
'Do you want to share a story with us? Do you want to advertise with us? Do you need publicity for a product, service, or event? Contact us on WhatsApp +2348183319097 Email: platformtimes@gmail.com
We are committed to impactful investigative journalism for human interest and social justice. Your donation will help us tell more stories. Kindly donate any amount HERE
