Tricycle kills masquerade in Anambra

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An unfortunate event happened on Sunday in Awka, the capital of Anambra State, when a tricycle driver struck a masquerade-clad child, crushing his head and causing his instant death.

Early celebrations and public processions for the forthcoming Imo Awka Festival—an annual traditional celebration conducted every May in honor of the town’s deity, represented by a monkey—were underway when the tragedy occurred, casting a gloom over the city.

Witnesses said that the young victim, dressed in full masquerade attire, was one of several young people walking the streets to spread awareness before to the festival’s formal start. Traditional masquerades, cane-wielding fake battles, and occasionally road blockades in exchange for cash gifts from drivers are all common features of these pre-festival processions.

Mr. Iyke Orji, an eyewitness, told ZINGTIE about the horrifying scene: “This afternoon (Sunday) in Awka, Imo, Awka masquerades were seen everywhere. One small boy (in a costume) masquerading was hit by a Keke NAPEP and his head was crushed. It was indeed a sad day.”

According to reports, local officials arrested the tricycle driver at the scene of the fatal collision.

Despite its cultural importance and large turnout, the Imo Awka Festival has been plagued by violent incidents and fatalities in the past. The public’s concern over safety procedures and the need for some traditional festival behaviors has grown as a result of the recurrent deaths.

Officially, the Imo Awka Festival this year is set to start on May 19 and end on May 24.

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