A violent clash between masquerade worshippers in Nua community, Aku, Igbo-Etiti Local Government Area of Enugu State, has left a young man named 'Cross' from Amankpo Umu-Ezike feared dead. The clash, which occurred at Elu-Orie Nua Aku around 4 p.m. on Monday, escalated into a tragic event resulting in casualties and widespread injuries.
Eyewitnesses reported that the confrontation took place when worshippers of the Odo masquerade procession from Elu-Orie Nua encountered a group of boys from Nua who allegedly initiated the violence by stoning the masquerade and its followers. The situation escalated as the worshippers advanced, with the boys reportedly resorting to gunfire.
During the chaos, the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of the Ogbede Police Division, alongside several others, was shot. This event led to widespread panic as people scrambled to escape the violent scene. To quell the violence, the police force present at the scene, including the DPO, employed tear gas to repel the attackers.
Regrettably, 'Cross,' a young man hailing from Amankpo Umu-Ezike, was feared dead as a result of the clashes. Additionally, more than 100 locals were injured and hospitalized due to the violence that unfolded during the masquerade worship.
The Enugu State Police Command's spokesperson, Daniel Ndukwe, confirmed the incident and announced the arrest of a male suspect believed to be connected to the clash. He assured the public that normalcy had been restored to the community.
As the community grapples with the aftermath of this tragic clash, questions arise about the underlying causes of the violence and the steps necessary to prevent such incidents in the future. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the potential for tension and conflict to escalate in traditional cultural events and underscores the importance of maintaining peace and harmony within communities.
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