After a female nurse was brutally attacked recently, the operations of masquerades have been halted indefinitely in the nine communities that constitute Nsukka town, Enugu State.
It was reported that the nurse, on her way to work, was viciously assaulted by a group of masquerades at the University of Nigeria town in Nsukka last Sunday.
This incident has sparked widespread condemnations from various quarters.
According to a reliable source briefed by NewsNow, a meeting involving stakeholders from the area decreed the indefinite cessation of masquerade activities.
The gathering, called by the Nsukka Town Federated Union and attended by Oha Nsukka, Akpuruaru Nsukka, Igwes, PG’s of the 9 autonomous communities, and the youth, arrived at a resolution stating, “The Oriokpa Masquerade operation has been suspended until further notice.”
“This suspension is necessary to allow the Council of Elders to conclude on the assault of Nurse Blessing Ogbonna and devise new operational guidelines for the Oriokpa masquerade,” the source revealed.
“Security agencies are urged to assist in enforcing this decision, with updates to follow in due course.”
Meanwhile, a community development organization, Otobo Nsukka Cultural Zone Community Developmental Initiative, has applauded the decision.
In a statement by Prince Chibeze Onah, Convener, and Agu Chineme, Head of Admin, the NGO praised the swift response of the Nsukka Town Federated Union and the Council of Elders in addressing the incident.
The organization said, “We appreciate the Council of Elders for prioritizing the safety of Nsukka community members and support the suspension of the Oriokpa masquerade activities until further notice.”
“We urge all stakeholders to honor the suspension and collaborate with the Council of Elders as they work on new operational guidelines for the Oriokpa masquerade,” the statement added.
“Let’s continue to work together for the advancement and prosperity of the Nsukka community.”