Two Killed in Masquerade Attacks in Enugu

The Enugu State Government has initiated a comprehensive investigation into the activities of Oriokpa Masquerade groups, pledging to hold those responsible accountable.

Earlier this week, two individuals reportedly died due to the excessive actions of Oriokpa masqueraders in Nsukka, located in the Nsukka Local Government Area.

Chief Okey Ogbodo, the state Commissioner for Local Government, Rural Development, and Chieftaincy Affairs, confirmed this in a statement to journalists on Friday, emphasizing the government’s commitment to public safety.

In response to the situation, he announced that the state government had summoned traditional rulers and the Presidents-General of the affected communities to discuss the matter.

The statement indicated that the affected communities include Nguru, Isiakpu, Echara, Nru, Edem-Ezema, Iheagu, Ihe, Owere, and Umuoyo.

Ogbodo noted that these areas have experienced chaos, injuries, and fatalities due to the actions of the masqueraders.

He also revealed that Governor Peter Mbah has instructed the Commissioner of Police to investigate the incidents and ensure that those responsible are brought to justice.

The government has warned that it will not tolerate any further excesses from any group or individual, emphasizing its commitment to protecting citizens’ rights and ensuring their security.

The statement partly read, “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.

“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.”

While expressing condolences to the families of those who lost their lives in connection with the masquerades’ activities, the government also issued a warning that it would not tolerate any further excesses by individuals or groups.

“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, as the rights and security of our women, children, youth, and indeed every citizen and resident 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.