By PAMELA EBOH, Awka

Following numerous complaints from residents who have reportedly been assaulted, harassed, or extorted by some masquerades and their followers in the course of the annual Imo Awka festival, the Anambra State Government has issued a stern warning to masquerade groups and revelers across the state.

The warning which was contained in public service announcement issued on Saturday, May 16, by the State Commissioner for Culture, Entertainment, and Tourism, Comrade Don Onyenji is against unruly and violent behaviors during cultural festivals and other celebrations.

The Commissioner who condemned in strong terms the violent and disruptive conduct witnessed in recent masquerade outings said: ?Government support for cultural heritage and festivals does not extend to lawlessness and violence. It highlighted reports of physical assaults on innocent citizens, especially motorists and tricycle riders, extortion of passers-by, and the disruption of public peace by certain masquerade groups.

?These actions are unlawful and unacceptable. It is contrary to existing laws in Anambra State for masquerades or any individual to harass, harm, or extort members of the public,? the Commissioner emphasized, while reminding cultural groups that masquerades must operate within designated areas and without infringing on the rights and safety of others.

He said that to curb the excesses, government has given a three-pronged directive which include: call on Presidents-General of town unions and traditional rulers to rein in their community masquerade groups and ensure lawful conduct; a directive to security agencies to arrest and prosecute any masquerade or individual found engaging in violence, extortion, or public disorder; a plea to community leaders to sensitize the youth and festival participants on the importance of peaceful and respectful celebrations.

Reaffirming the government?s commitment to preserving Anambra?s rich cultural identity, Onyenji noted that celebrations should be held with ?pride, dignity, and respect for one another,? not as an excuse for criminality and public nuisance.

He added: ?Any further breach of public peace in the name of culture will be met with the full weight of the law.?

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