Plans to bring the revered and fearsome Ajofia Nnewi Masquerade from Anambra State to Lagos for an upcoming Igbo Festival have been halted by the Nigeria Police.
The decision followed a high-level meeting between Igbo stakeholders in Lagos and the Lagos State Commissioner of Police, CP Ishola Olarewaju Olawale, held at the POWA complex in GRA, Ikeja.
The meeting included notable Igbo leaders such as Ezendigbo of Lagos State, Eze Christian Uchechukwu Nwachukwu, and other community leaders, market leaders, captains of industry, and representatives from religious and cultural groups. Police representatives, including area commanders and DPOs, were also in attendance.
CP Olawale highlighted concerns about the proposed visit, pointing to a video of the Ajofia Masquerade performing rituals and declaring its intention to come to Lagos. The video, which attracted the attention of security agencies, raised suspicions about the motives behind the visit, especially after a group allegedly linked to the masquerade boasted about plans to cause mayhem.
The Commissioner emphasized that Lagos is a diverse state with a history of peaceful coexistence among ethnic groups. He noted that the introduction of such a culturally specific and enigmatic masquerade could disrupt the public peace, especially since non-Igbo residents might misunderstand its significance and practices.
During the meeting, the Commissioner declared that the Ajofia Masquerade would not be permitted to enter Lagos. He urged Igbo stakeholders to dissuade the masquerade’s organizers from proceeding with their plans, warning that those associated with the threats would be monitored and held accountable.
In response, Eze Christian Nwachukwu assured the Commissioner that the message would be communicated to the masquerade’s group. He clarified that Ajofia’s reputation as dangerous may stem from its imposing size rather than any real threat it poses.
CP Olawale reassured the Igbo community of their safety and protection in Lagos. He encouraged stakeholders to inform the police of any future cultural celebrations to ensure proper security arrangements.
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