The Enugu State Government has initiated a comprehensive investigation into the activities of Oriokpa masquerade groups following the deaths of two individuals earlier this week in Nsukka Local Government Area.
According to The PUNCH, the Commissioner for Local Government, Rural Development, and Chieftaincy Affairs, Chief Okey Ogbodo confirmed the government’s commitment to addressing the situation in a press statement on Friday.
The commissioner, the investigation aims to hold those responsible for the fatalities accountable, while also ensuring public safety moving forward.
“The state government is determined to safeguard the lives and rights of its citizens,” Ogbodo stated. “We will not allow any group or individual to instill fear in our communities.”
The incident, which occurred in the university town of Nsukka, led to unrest in several communities, including Nguru, Isiakpu, Echara, Nru, Edem-Ezema, Iheagu, Ihe, Owere, and Umuoyo.
According to Ogbodo, these areas have experienced “pandemonium, bodily harm, and loss of life” as a result of the masquerade activities.
Governor Peter Mbah has instructed the state’s Commissioner of Police to launch a full investigation into the incidents, ensuring that those responsible for the violence are brought to justice.
Additionally, traditional rulers and Presidents-General of the affected communities have been summoned for a meeting to address the issue and restore calm.
“The governor has made it clear that such actions will not go unpunished,” Ogbodo said. “We have summoned the traditional leaders and Presidents-General to meet with us at the State Secretariat to resolve this issue and prevent further chaos.”
While expressing condolences to the families of those who lost their lives, the government emphasized its zero-tolerance stance on any further misconduct.
“Our people must never live in fear,” the statement concluded. “The security and rights of every citizen—especially women, children, and youth—must be upheld at all times.”
The meeting between the state officials and community leaders is scheduled for Friday, September 27, 2024, at the State Secretariat.
