Awka, February 18, 2024 – The Okoye family in the Umuawulu community, situated in the Awka South Local Government Area of Anambra State, is demanding justice following the alleged killing of their father, Chief Shadrach Okoye, by a popular masquerade.
According to reports, Okoye was fatally punched by the masquerade after he purportedly refused to provide money to the entity. Chidubem Okoye, the deceased’s first son, recounted the incident to our correspondent in Awka on Friday, revealing that the tragic event unfolded on December 26, 2023, while his father was accompanying a friend visiting him.
Chidubem expressed anguish over the family’s ordeal, citing challenges encountered in securing justice and arranging their father’s burial since the incident occurred.
He narrated, “My father, Chief Okoye, left his house alive to accompany his friend, only to be brought back as a corpse moments later. They encountered about four masquerades on the road…One of whom refused to allow him to pass, demanding money.”
Despite Okoye’s explanation of not having any money, the masquerade persisted, leading to a confrontation that resulted in the fatal punch. The culprit, identified as “Ifechukwu,” reportedly fled the community following the incident.
Although the matter was reported to the Central Police Station in Awka and the local traditional ruler, Igwe Egwuonwu, the family laments the lack of concrete action, with the police citing the need to apprehend the suspect first.
State police spokesperson, DSP Tochukwu Ikenga, confirmed the incident’s report and assured ongoing investigation into the matter.
While the community awaits justice, the tragedy underscores the need for swift and effective intervention to address such incidents and prevent future occurrences.
