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.

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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.”

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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.