Masquerades Beat Female Nurse to Near-Death, Sparking Outrage in Enugu

A violent attack by a group of masquerades in Nsukka Local Government Area, Enugu State, has left a female nurse, Miss Blessing Ogbonna, beaten to near-death. The incident, involving the Oriokpa Nsukka masquerades, has triggered widespread outrage and calls for justice.

Eyewitness reports indicate that the masquerades, dressed in their traditional costumes, attacked Miss Ogbonna, a staff member at a private hospital, while she was riding a motorcycle to work. A tipper blocked her view, making it too late for her to avoid the masquerades. The group began beating her relentlessly until she fell into a drainage ditch.

Blessing, recounting her ordeal to the Daily Post, described how she was left traumatized by the brutal attack. Despite falling and attempting to escape, the masquerades continued their assault, leaving her seriously injured.

The incident has provoked strong reactions from various quarters, with many Nigerians calling for an outright ban of the Oriokpa Nsukka masquerades, citing their violent behavior and history of crimes, including bearing arms.

Human rights groups have joined the call for action, with the Heroine Women Foundation demanding a thorough investigation and severe penalties for those responsible. The foundation’s Executive Director, Amb. Onyi Mama, expressed her shock and outrage, condemning the attack as inhumane and unacceptable. “What is even more sad is that this is a nurse in the business of saving lives and was on her way to work when these conscienceless individuals descended on her and were having fun in her pain,” she said.

Local community groups, such as the Otobo Nsukka Cultural Zone Community Developmental Initiative, have also stepped in to ensure justice. The group’s leaders, Prince Chibeze Onah and Agu Chineme, visited Blessing at the hospital, confirming that she is responding to treatment. They have urged local authorities to take swift action to prevent future incidents and hold the perpetrators accountable.

The incident has also attracted the attention of academic professionals, with Professor Damina Opata from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, expressing concern about the escalating violence within the masquerade tradition. He suggested that the Oriokpa phenomenon, once a cultural symbol, has become a threat to peace and security, but noted that with proper intervention, it could be restored to its former essence.

Overall, the attack on Miss Ogbonna has prompted an outcry for justice and a deeper examination of the masquerade tradition, highlighting the need to address violence and promote cultural practices that respect human dignity and safety.