Police Name 28-Year-Old as Brain behind Violent Agaba Awgbu Masquerade Rampage in Anambra
The Anambra State Police Command has unmasked 28-year-old Ifesinachi Ezeolu as the mastermind behind the recent violent escapades of the Agaba Awgbu masquerade, which terrorized residents and sparked outrage in the community.
In a statement issued Monday evening, the Command distanced itself from any endorsement of thuggery disguised as tradition, stressing that while cultural practices remain sacrosanct, they must never trample on the fundamental rights of citizens.
Eyewitnesses had earlier reported harrowing incidents where the masquerade and its handlers assaulted passersby, intimidated women, and disrupted public peace during a festival in Awgbu, headquarters of Orumba North Local Government Area.
Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Tochukwu Ikenga, who confirmed Ezeolu’s identity, vowed that the long arm of the law would catch up with all perpetrators.
“Ifesinachi Ezeolu, male, 28, of Awgbu in Orumba North LGA, has been identified as the individual responsible for the violent conduct exhibited by the Agaba Awgbu masquerade,” Ikenga stated.
“We respect our rich cultural and traditional practices, but we will not tolerate any masquerade or cultural group violating the rights of citizens through assault, intimidation, or public disorder.”
The Command assured Anambra residents of its unwavering resolve to fish out other accomplices still at large, with investigations intensifying.
“We are working assiduously with community leaders to ensure that cultural expressions remain peaceful and do not threaten public safety,” Ikenga added, urging citizens to provide credible information to aid the probe.
This incident has reignited debates over the regulation of masquerade festivals in Igboland, where groups like Agaba Awgbu, known for their whip-wielding displays, have historically enforced community norms but increasingly faced accusations of excess.
Similar clashes in nearby communities have prompted calls from rights groups for stricter guidelines during the yuletide and New Yam seasons.
Anambra Police Commissioner, CP Nwafor Okonkwo, reiterated the force’s zero-tolerance stance on jungle justice, promising swift prosecution to deter copycats.
Residents have hailed the police action as a bold step towards taming rogue masquerades and restoring order.
