A tragic incident has reportedly occurred during the ongoing Ogidi Festival in Idemili North Local Government Area of Anambra State, where a man was allegedly stabbed to death by a masquerade after reportedly refusing to give the performer money.
According to eyewitness accounts, the incident happened amid the festivities when the masquerade approached the victim and allegedly demanded money. The situation reportedly escalated into a confrontation after the man declined the request.
Witnesses claimed that the masquerade allegedly attacked the victim with a sharp object, inflicting fatal injuries before fleeing the scene. The victim was said to have collapsed and was later confirmed dead.
The incident caused panic among festival-goers, with many fleeing the area as confusion spread through the venue.
Residents have expressed shock over the development, describing the incident as unfortunate and calling for a thorough investigation to ensure those responsible are brought to justice.
As of the time of filing this report, the Anambra State Police Command had not issued an official statement on the incident, and the identity of the deceased had yet to be made public.
The annual Ogidi Festival is one of Anambra State’s prominent cultural celebrations, attracting large crowds from within and outside the state. The incident has, however, cast a shadow over this year’s festivities.
Authorities are expected to investigate the circumstances surrounding the killing and determine the identity of the individual behind the masquerade costume.