A tricycle, popularly called Keke NAPEP, has reportedly crushed a masquerade to death in a buildup to the annual Awka Festival in Anambra State on Sunday.
According to eyewitnesses, the incident occurred while the masquerade was parading along a road when the tricycle allegedly lost control and hit the masquerade, and his head was reportedly crushed in the impact.
“One masquerade was hit by a Keke NAPEP on Sunday, and his head was crushed. It was indeed a sad development,” an eyewitness told reporters.
The tricycle operator was immediately apprehended by bystanders and handed over to security agencies.
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In previous years, the state police enforced traffic control and safety measures during the festival to prevent such tragedies. However, it remains unclear whether similar safety protocols are in place this year.
The festival typically lasts about a week, with masquerades taking to the streets to entertain crowds in the days leading up to the main event. Previous editions have witnessed incidents of fatalities, raising questions about the safety of the celebrations.
The Imo Awka Festival is set to officially begin on May 19 and climax on May 24, is one of the most significant cultural events in southeastern Nigeria.
It draws large crowds from across the country and beyond, with traditional masquerades taking center stage in the celebrations.