A feared masquerade identified as Agaba has been arrested by the Anambra State Police following a violent outbreak during a burial ceremony in Awgbu community, Orumba North Local Government Area.
The incident, which occurred on Monday, has sparked widespread outrage both locally and online.
According to reports, Agaba, known for its destructive behaviour and traditional appearances only after 6:30 p.m., disrupted the funeral proceedings, attacking guests, community members, and bystanders.
Several videos circulating on social media showed the masquerade destroying public address equipment on the podium and confronting the master of ceremonies, Onowu, an indigene of Awgbu.
In one clip, Agaba chased other smaller masquerades away from the venue.
In separate videos, the masked figure forcibly knocked down two motorcycle riders—one elderly and one younger man—causing the younger rider to hit his head on a parked vehicle, raising concerns over possible severe injuries.
The incident has ignited a heated debate online.
Some social media users blamed the master of ceremonies for challenging the masquerade, while others condemned the episode as “cultural barbarism” incompatible with modern society.
Charles Ogbu, a Facebook user, called on Governor Chukwuma Soludo to ban the masquerade, sanction its handlers, and prosecute anyone who aided in the attacks.
Residents of Awgbu also appealed to community leaders to take measures to control the behaviour of traditional masquerades, emphasising that public safety must take precedence over cultural practices that pose danger to citizens.
Confirming police action, Anambra State Police Command’s spokesperson, Tochukwu Ikenga, stated that Agaba had been taken into custody.
“The Command has taken into custody the masquerade involved in the unprovoked and violent attacks on innocent citizens, which led to a breach of public peace in Awgbu, Orumba North Local Government Area,” he said.
Ikenga also described the masquerade’s conduct as “totally unacceptable, unlawful, and will not be tolerated under any guise,” adding that investigations were ongoing to ensure all individuals involved are held accountable.
