The Anambra State Police Command has arrested a masquerade accused of launching violent attacks on residents, causing a major breach of public peace in Awgbu, Orumba North LGA.
The arrest followed the circulation of viral videos showing the masquerade on a rampage during the Ofala Festival of the late traditional ruler, Igwe M.C. Okechukwu, over the weekend.
In the footage, the masquerade is seen chasing passers-by, forcefully pushing riders off motorcycles, destroying property, and causing chaos. In one clip, the masquerade pushes an elderly man off his motorcycle, leading to another accident where an aged man fell and hit his head on a parked vehicle.
Supporters were also seen throwing plastic chairs, tables, and other objects at people during a public function, escalating the violence.
In a statement on Wednesday, the Police Public Relations Officer, Tochukwu Ikenga, confirmed the arrest. “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,” Ikenga said.
He condemned the actions as “totally unacceptable, unlawful, and will not be tolerated under any guise.” The suspect is in police custody, and investigations are ongoing to apprehend others involved.
This incident echoes a similar case in February 2025, when the Anambra State Government declared a masquerader known as “Nweke” wanted for allegedly killing a 71-year-old man during an outing in Umuawulu.
State law confines masquerade displays to designated arenas during festivals and prohibits the obstruction of roads or acts of violence, emphasizing that the practice is for entertainment, not harm.
