A masquerade from the Awgbu community in Anambra State has been apprehended by police following violent confrontations with residents during a burial event on Monday.
The Police Command of Anambra State verified the arrest of the masquerade, recognized by locals as Agaba, after videos depicting the chaos gained traction on social media.
Agaba has a reputation in the community as a notorious masquerade known for his destructive tendencies, traditionally appearing only after 6:30 pm, once ceremonial activities are typically concluded. However, during the burial ceremony on Monday, the masquerade allegedly unleashed mayhem.
Footage circulating on various platforms showcased the masquerade assaulting bystanders, community members, and attendees at the event. In one video, Agaba was depicted on the event stage, smashing public address equipment belonging to the emcee, referenced as Onowu, a community member who attempted to intervene.
Another clip revealed the masquerade pursuing other smaller masquerades, compelling them to flee. Additionally, two separate videos captured Agaba knocking down two motorcycle riders—an elderly individual and another younger man. The younger rider suffered a head injury against a stationary vehicle, raising concerns about possible severe injuries.
The episode has ignited intense discussions online, with some individuals criticizing the emcee for confronting the masquerade, while others vehemently denounced the spectacle as an instance of “cultural barbarism” that does not align with contemporary societal standards.
On Facebook, a user named Charles Ogbu urged Governor Chukwuma Soludo to impose a ban on the masquerade, hold accountable its managers, and arrest those implicated in the violent assaults.
Many community members have also called on local leaders in Awgbu to take action against the masquerade, emphasizing the need for community safety to take precedence over harmful traditional customs.
The police confirmed their response in a statement from spokesperson Tochukwu Ikenga, who noted the apprehension of the masquerade involved in these “unprovoked and violent attacks on innocent citizens,” which disrupted peace in Awgbu, Orumba North Local Government Area.
Ikenga described the masquerade’s actions as “entirely unacceptable, unlawful, and intolerable,” assuring that ongoing investigations would seek to bring all relevant individuals to justice.
By David-Chyddy Eleke, Awka
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