Masquerade Assaults: Anambra Govt Signals Tough Action, Possible Ban

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...The action was triggered by reports surrounding a masquerade known as “Agaba Awgbu” in Awgbu community,

ANAMBRA, NIGERIA- The iNews Times | The Anambra State Government has warned that it will clamp down on, ban, and prosecute masquerade groups whose actions endanger public safety, amid growing concerns over violent and disorderly conduct during traditional festivals across the state.

The warning was conveyed in a public service announcement signed by the Commissioner for Culture, Entertainment and Tourism, Donatus Onyenji, following a series of complaints about assaults, intimidation and harassment linked to masquerade activities.

The action was triggered by reports surrounding a masquerade known as “Agaba Awgbu” in Awgbu community, Orumba South Local Government Area, where alleged attacks on members of the public sparked widespread outrage.

A viral video circulating on social media showed the masquerade chasing and assaulting passers-by, disrupting a public event and creating panic without any apparent provocation. The incident occurred during the recent Ofala Festival of the traditional ruler of Awgbu and reignited calls for firm government intervention.

In response, the Anambra State Police Command arrested the masquerade and later identified a 28-year-old suspect, Ifesinachi Ezeolu, as the individual behind the violent display. The Police Public Relations Officer, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, said the arrest followed numerous public complaints, adding that investigations were ongoing to apprehend other accomplices connected to the incident.

In the public service announcement dated January 16, 2026, the commissioner expressed concern over what he described as the “rascally behaviour” of some masquerades, stressing that the state’s guidelines on masquerading, issued in 2024, remain fully in force.

According to the statement, the government reiterated that masquerade performances must not involve unruly conduct, physical assault, intimidation or any action capable of disturbing public order or harming law-abiding citizens.

The guidelines further state that masquerades are to perform strictly within designated community spaces or squares and must not block traffic, harass motorists or interfere with the normal movement of people.

The commissioner also reminded law enforcement agencies, community leaders, presidents-general and traditional rulers of their responsibility to ensure strict adherence to the regulations governing masquerade activities.

While Governor Chukwuma Soludo continues to support cultural festivals and masquerading as important elements of Anambra’s heritage, the government stressed that such traditions must be practised with responsibility and restraint. The statement noted that as Anambra increasingly positions itself as a hub for cultural tourism, leisure and entertainment, activities capable of portraying the state in a negative light would not be tolerated.

The government warned that it would not hesitate to ban, arrest or prosecute any masquerade or group found breaching public peace, noting that some groups that had already violated the directive had been arrested and were currently facing prosecution.

The commissioner concluded by urging communities to showcase Anambra’s rich cultural heritage in a decent, engaging and peaceful manner, emphasising that culture should remain a source of pride and unity, not a vehicle for violence or intimidation.