Attack On Female Nurse: Masquerades Suspended Indefinitely In Nsukka

Following the recent brutal attack on a female nurse, the Enugu State government has suspended all activities of masquerades indefinitely in the nine communities that make up Nsukka town.

It would be recalled that a nurse who was 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 as a reliable source confirmed to Sunday Telegraph that at a meeting attended by the stakeholders from the area said the operations of masquerades have now been banned indefinitely.

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 saying, “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.”