The Anambra State Police Command has taken into custody a masquerade accused of carrying out violent and unprovoked attacks on residents during a public cultural event in Awgbu, a community in Orumba North Local Government Area of the state. The arrest follows widespread public outrage after videos of the incident circulated online, prompting renewed debate over the enforcement of laws regulating masquerade activities in Anambra.

According to the police, the suspect was involved in actions that disrupted public peace and endangered lives during the last Ofala Festival held in honour of the late traditional ruler of Awgbu community, Igwe M. C. Okechukwu, also known as Ezedioramma II and Ezekanunu III. The incident reportedly occurred over the weekend and quickly escalated from a cultural display into scenes of chaos that alarmed residents and viewers nationwide.

Viral footage sparks swift police response

Multiple video clips that went viral on social media showed the masquerade chasing passers-by, forcefully pushing riders off motorcycles and attacking individuals at random. The footage also captured moments when the masquerade disrupted a public function, destroying equipment while supporters cheered and encouraged the behaviour.

In one widely shared clip, an elderly man riding a motorcycle was seen being pushed to the ground by the masquerade. Another video showed a separate incident in which an aged man reportedly fell from a moving motorcycle and struck his head against a parked vehicle. Although authorities have not confirmed the extent of the victims’ injuries, the images raised serious concerns about public safety during cultural events.

Additional footage showed supporters throwing plastic chairs, tables and sachet water at attendees, further escalating the disorder. The combined actions created panic among residents and attendees, many of whom fled the scene to avoid injury.

Police condemn actions, promise accountability

Reacting to the incident in a statement issued on Wednesday, the spokesman for the Anambra State Police Command, Tochukwu Ikenga, confirmed that the masquerade involved had been arrested and was currently in police custody. He said investigations were ongoing to identify and apprehend other individuals who took part in the violence.

According to Ikenga, “The Anambra State Police Command wishes to inform members of the public, especially Ndi Anambra and other concerned persons, that the command has taken into custody the masquerade involved in the unprovoked and violent attacks on innocent citizens, which led to a breach of public peace in Awgbu, Orumba North Local Government Area.”

He described the conduct displayed in the videos as unlawful and unacceptable, stressing that cultural practices could not be used as a cover for criminal behaviour. “The behaviour of the masquerade, as seen in the viral video currently in circulation, is totally unacceptable, unlawful, and will not be tolerated under any guise,” Ikenga said. He added that the police were determined to ensure that all those involved would be brought to justice.

A recurring challenge for authorities

The latest incident has revived memories of previous clashes linked to masquerade activities in the state. In February 2025, PUNCH Online reported that the Anambra State Government declared a masquerader identified as Nweke wanted for allegedly killing a 71-year-old man, Shedrack Okoye, during a masquerade outing at Umuawulu community in Awka South Local Government Area.

That case marked a turning point in the state’s handling of masquerade-related violence and led to stronger public calls for enforcement of existing laws. At the time, the Commissioner for Culture, Entertainment and Tourism, Don Onyenji, warned that violent masquerade outings undermined the cultural values they were meant to celebrate.

Legal framework on masquerading

Anambra State already has a legal framework governing masquerade activities. According to Onyenji, the state’s masquerading law, enacted in 2022, stipulates that masquerade displays must be restricted to designated arenas during festivals. The law also prohibits masquerades from obstructing movement, blocking roads or causing disturbances in public spaces.

The commissioner emphasized that masquerading, as a cultural practice, is intended for entertainment and communal bonding rather than intimidation or violence. He noted that any deviation from these principles amounts to a violation of state law and cultural norms.

Despite the existence of the law, enforcement has often proved difficult, especially during large festivals where crowds gather and traditional authority structures intersect with modern security arrangements.

Why this development matters now

Cultural festivals remain central to community identity across Anambra State, attracting indigenes, visitors and tourists. However, repeated incidents of violence linked to masquerade outings threaten to erode public confidence and discourage participation in such events.

Security analysts note that the spread of viral videos has increased pressure on authorities to act swiftly. According to local observers, the visibility created by social media has made it harder for violent acts to be ignored or quietly resolved at the community level.

The arrest in Awgbu may signal a more assertive approach by law enforcement, particularly as the state seeks to balance respect for tradition with the need to protect lives and property.

Community reactions and implications

Residents of Awgbu have expressed mixed reactions. While some welcomed the police intervention as overdue, others called for better collaboration between community leaders, festival organisers and security agencies to prevent future incidents. Cultural stakeholders argue that proper supervision of masquerade groups and clearer boundaries during festivals could reduce the risk of violence.

Looking ahead, observers say the outcome of the ongoing investigation will be closely watched. It could set a precedent for how similar cases are handled across the state, especially during peak festival seasons.

Authorities are expected to provide updates on the investigation, including whether additional arrests will be made and if formal charges will follow. There are also calls for the Anambra State Government to intensify public awareness campaigns on the 2022 masquerading law and its penalties.

For many residents, the key test will be whether enforcement remains consistent beyond moments of public outrage. As Anambra continues to celebrate its rich cultural heritage, the challenge lies in ensuring that tradition and public safety move forward together.