The Enugu State Police Command, specifically the Anti-Cultism Tactical Squad in Nsukka, arrested a masquerade known as Oriokpa for physically assaulting a female victim at Ugwuoye Junction in Nsukka. The masquerader was identified as Ugwuoke Ebube, a 22-year-old resident of Enugu Road, Nsukka. This arrest came after a video went viral showing masquerades assaulting a female nurse riding a motorcycle in April 2024. Ugwuoke Ebube was arraigned in the Nsukka Magistrate Court on May 22, 2024, but was granted bail by the court. Commissioner of Police Kanayo Uzuegbu condemned the incident and warned against using cultural celebrations as a cover for criminal activities.
Threats Faced by Nsukka Police Over Arrested Masquerade
Following the arrest of the masquerade for assaulting a nurse in Nsukka, the police in Nsukka may be facing threats or backlash from individuals or groups associated with the masquerade tradition. This could be due to cultural sensitivities and the significance of masquerades in certain communities, leading to tensions between law enforcement and those who support or participate in such traditions.
