By Alex Enebeli
The Enugu State Government has expressed displeasure over the excesses of the Oriokpa masquerades, especially their renewed attacks on Nsukka residents.
The Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Mrs Ugochi Madueke, stated government’s stance on the development in a statement she made in Enugu on Tuesday.
Madueke described the act as a violent conduct, which constituted public nuisance.
“The State Government will take decisive action to bring the menace to an end.
“Flogging, harassment, brutality and extortion of residents by masqueraders are unacceptable and negate the people’s true culture.
“Masquerades are revered in our culture and, therefore, expected to be conducted with dignity, safety and protection of citizens’ rights,” the statement added.
The commissioner further stated that the masquerades’ conduct violated the conditions upon which their earlier ban was lifted.
“The continuous abuse of this sacred tradition by some individuals is deeply disturbing and regrettable.
“They have regrettably turned cultural displays into opportunities for violence, intimidation and extortion.
“This contravenes previous engagements the government had with stakeholders and custodians of Nsukka tradition on the issue,” the statement added.
Madueke reiterated the government’s zero tolerance for cultural practices, which
endanger public safety or violates the law.
“The government is working closely with law enforcement agencies to ensure that those involved in the incident were identified and brought to justice.
“A comprehensive review of the Oriokpa masquerade’s activities will commence immediately with a fresh ban in consideration.
“Community leaders and custodians of culture should ensure that all cultural practices are peaceful and safe for the citizens,” she further stated.
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