culture

Oriokpa Masquerade Assault Case Leads to Court Remand in Enugu

Published

1 year ago

June 28, 2025

Enugu Magistrate Court remands three over Oriokpa masquerade assault, as police vow to arrest others and ensure justice for victims

The Oriokpa masquerade assault case has taken a legal turn as three individuals linked to the violent incident have been remanded by an Enugu Magistrate Court sitting in the Nsukka Magisterial District.

Also read: Ceemore Nightclub Assault Case Charged to Court in Port Harcourt

The accused persons, identified as Emeka Eze (33), Omeke Uchechukwu (22), and Malachi Michael Nnaemeka (30), were arrested by officers of the Enugu State Police Command and arraigned on Tuesday.

The court ordered their remand on three-count charges, including conspiracy, demanding money with menaces, and causing grievous harm.

The police allege that the suspects took part in a brutal attack on innocent residents during the Oriokpa masquerade celebration along Aku Road in Nsukka on 22 June.

A video of the assault went viral, sparking public outrage and drawing attention to the abuse of cultural events for violent conduct.

A male victim of the attack sustained severe injuries and was hospitalised, according to the police. Investigations quickly led to the arrest of the three suspects with support from concerned members of the community, while others involved reportedly fled the scene.

“The Commissioner of Police has ordered intensified efforts to apprehend the remaining members of the masquerade group who are currently at large,” said Police Spokesperson SP Daniel Ndukwe in a statement released on Saturday.

He added that the case has been adjourned to 31 July 2025 for further hearing. Meanwhile, community leaders across Enugu State have been urged to rein in excesses during cultural displays and prevent further incidents of violence.

SP Ndukwe emphasised the police command’s commitment to justice, stating, “The law does not grant cultural cover to criminality. Anyone who hides behind traditions to inflict harm on others will be brought to book.”

Also read: Edo high court jails 34 internet fraudsters in landmark crackdown

The arrest and arraignment signal a stern warning against the misuse of masquerade processions and reinforce the state’s stand against public disorder masked as culture.

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events

Oluna’s Ifa Festival Draws Pasuma, Malaika to Owode Egba

Published

1 week ago

November 2, 2026

Peculiar Adirika

Oluna Ifa Festival 2026 brought Pasuma, Malaika, Ibrahim Chatta and other celebrities to Owode Egba for a two-day cultural celebration

Owode Egba in Ogun State became a centre of cultural celebration on October 30 and 31, 2026, as the families of High Chief Ayoola Adeyi Olaifa, the Olu Nla, also known as Oluna of Owode Egbaland, hosted a two-day Ifa Festival featuring prominent Fuji musicians, Nollywood personalities and traditional rulers.

Also read: Ajaero Insists NLC Can Negotiate Alone in Labour Dispute

The event, tagged Ifa Festival ’26, was organised around the theme of heritage, music and community, bringing together residents, visitors and entertainment personalities for two days of cultural activities and live performances.

The first day of the celebration took place at Olunla Villa, Balogun Quarters, Owode Egba, with Fuji musician Sulaimon Alao Malaika leading the entertainment.

He was joined by Alhaji Saheed Bamidele, popularly known as Ife Arawe, guest artiste Olariiki and Awise Mass Kenny, also known as Eyinju Oganla.

Activities continued on Saturday, October 31, at All Saint School 1, Owode Egba, with a bigger entertainment line-up led by Fuji star Alhaji Wasiu Alabi Pasuma, popularly known as Oganla.

Other performers included Segun Johnson and T.I Blaze, while Nollywood actor Ibrahim Chatta was scheduled to make a special appearance.

Yemi Olade and Kukoyi Adedoyin served as masters of ceremonies for the second day’s programme.

The festival also featured a strong traditional and royal presence. Oba Kolawole Arewa Sowemimo, the Gbadewolu 1 and Olu of Owode Egbaland, was named Royal Father of the Day, while Chief Otunba Michael Oluwole Soretire chaired the occasion.

The gathering brought together traditional leadership and contemporary entertainment, highlighting the role of cultural festivals in celebrating community identity and connecting different generations.

With Fuji performances, celebrity appearances and the presence of traditional rulers, Ifa Festival ’26 provided a platform for residents and visitors to celebrate the heritage and communal spirit of Owode Egbaland.

Also read: Ajaero Insists NLC Can Negotiate Alone in Labour Dispute

The organisers described the event as an opportunity to celebrate culture, tradition and the identity of the community, placing Owode Egba’s cultural heritage at the centre of the two-day gathering.