Three Oriokpa masquerades have been remanded in prison by a Magistrate Court sitting in Nsukka, Enugu State on Thursday, for allegedly assaulting a young man along Aku Road Market in Nsukka.
The incident occurred, a week before they were arrested. According to information, the masquerades flout a prior directive restricting their activities in the area. They were said to have inflicted serious injuries on an unsuspecting victim during their outing.
The trio, widely referred to as “spirits” due to the traditional and cultural reverence associated with the Oriokpa masquerade, were apprehended by a Joint Task Force (JTF) comprising operatives of the Nkpunanano Task Force and personnel of the Nigeria Police Force.
Sources said the masquerades were initially to be remanded in prison while fully dressed in their traditional costumes.
However, the presiding magistrate tempered justice with mercy, and allowed them to change their masquerade attires before being taken into custody.
The court adjourned the case till October 7, 2025, for further hearing, while the accused remain in custody at the Nsukka Correctional Centre.
