Oriokpa Masquerade Mayhem: 2 Dead in Nsukka Town, Enugu State

Nsukka Town Erupts in Chaos: Oriokpa Masquerades Linked to Two Fatalities.

Nsukka, Enugu State, has been plagued by violence since Tuesday, as two individuals fell victim to separate encounters with the notorious Oriokpa masquerades. The incidents reignite concerns over the unchecked aggression associated with these traditional performers.

Recent Incidents:

– Aku Road, Obechara: A middle-aged woman was fatally struck by a truck while fleeing an Oriokpa masquerade.
– Nru Junction: A male University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN) student lost his life under unclear circumstances.

Background:

– Women’s Protest: Hundreds of women from Eha-Alumona community protested against masquerade harassment on September 19.
– Previous Incidents: A viral video showed Oriokpa masquerades brutally flogging a nurse in April 2024.
– Public Outcry: Human rights groups and citizens condemned the violence, demanding justice.

Police Response:

– Enugu State Police Command has launched investigations, according to police sources.
– Command spokesman DSP Daniel Ndukwe unavailable for comment.

The continued brutality of Oriokpa masquerades raises questions about the effectiveness of authorities in addressing this issue. As tensions rise in Nsukka, residents demand action to curb the masquerades’ violent behavior.