The Enugu State Government has called an emergency meeting with traditional rulers and presidents-general of communities in Nsukka, following the deadly attacks by ‘Oriokpa’ masquerade that resulted in two fatalities.
In addition, the state government has launched an investigation into the activities of the Oriokpa masquerade groups in the region and pledged to prosecute those responsible.
This information was conveyed in a statement by the Commissioner for Local Government, Rural Development, and Chieftaincy Affairs, Okey Ogbodo, in Enugu.
The violence, which erupted earlier this week, is part of a troubling pattern of alleged misconduct by the Oriokpa masquerades, who were previously involved in a widely condemned assault on a female nurse in April.
On September 19, hundreds of women from Eha-Alumona, a community in the Nsukka Council Area, took to the streets to protest the ongoing attacks and harassment by masquerades in their locality.
Mr. Ogbodo reported that the Enugu State Government had received alarming accounts of the “untoward activities” of Oriokpa masqueraders in certain parts of the Nsukka Council Area, leading to chaos, bodily harm, and loss of life.
“Accordingly, and following the express directive of Governor Peter Mbah, I invite the traditional rulers and Presidents-General of the affected communities to meet with me this Friday,” he stated.
“The meeting will take place in my office at 1 p.m. The communities involved include Nguru, Isiakpu, Echara, Nru, Edem-Ezema, Iheagu, Ihe, Owere, and Umuoyo.
“Furthermore, the governor has directed the Commissioner of Police to initiate a comprehensive investigation into these incidents.
“The investigation will cover the reported deaths linked to the activities of the masquerade groups, with the aim of holding those responsible accountable,” Mr. Ogbodo said.
While expressing condolences to the families of the deceased, the commissioner emphasized that the government will not tolerate any further excesses from individuals or groups.
“Our citizens should not live in fear; the rights and safety of our women, children, youth, and every resident of Enugu State must be protected at all times.
“Thus, any such transgressions by the Oriokpa masqueraders or any other group will face appropriate consequences from the government,” Mr. Ogbodo added.
