Three men linked to a violent masquerade incident in Nsukka, Enugu State, have been arraigned and remanded at the Nigerian Correctional Custodial Centre following their arrest for assaulting residents during the recent Oriokpa Masquerade celebration.
The Enugu State Police Public Relations Officer, SP Daniel Ndukwe, disclosed the development in a statement made available to DAILY GAZETTE on Friday.
The suspects; Emeka Eze (33), Omeke Uchechukwu (22), and Malachi Michael Nnaemeka (30)—were brought before the Nsukka Magistrate Court on charges of conspiracy, extortion by menace, and inflicting grievous harm.
The court has scheduled the next hearing for July 31, 2025.
The incident, which occurred on June 22, 2025, along Aku Road in Nsukka, drew widespread outrage after a viral video showed a male victim being severely beaten by masqueraders.
The victim was later hospitalized due to the injuries sustained.
Following public outcry, the police, with the help of vigilant members of the community, tracked down and arrested the three suspects.
Others involved in the attack are still on the run.
In response, the Commissioner of Police, Enugu State Command, has directed a manhunt for the remaining fleeing suspects and has called on community leaders to educate their people against using traditional or cultural festivals as a cover for criminal acts.
“Culture must never be used as an excuse for violence or criminality,” the Commissioner stated, emphasizing the need for community vigilance and cooperation.
