A tragic incident unfolded on Sunday in Awka, the capital of Anambra State, when a tricycle operator fatally struck a boy dressed as a masquerade, crushing his head and resulting in instant death.
The tragedy cast a shadow over early festivities linked to the Imo Awka Festival—an annual cultural celebration held every May in honor of the town’s deity, symbolized by a monkey.
Eyewitnesses recounted that the young victim, adorned in full masquerade regalia, was part of a group of youths parading the streets to raise awareness ahead of the festival’s official commencement. These pre-festival processions often feature masquerades, mock cane combats, and sometimes road blockades, typically in anticipation of monetary gifts from motorists.
An eyewitness, Mr. Iyke Orji, described the horrific scene: “This afternoon in Awka, Imo Awka masquerades were 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.”
Local authorities apprehended the tricycle driver at the scene of the accident.
While the Imo Awka Festival is culturally significant, its history has been marred by violence and fatalities, raising concerns over safety measures and the necessity of certain traditional practices.
This year’s Imo Awka Festival is scheduled to begin on May 19 and will culminate on May 24.
