JUST IN;Masquerade killed by tricycle ahead of popular festival
JUST IN;Masquerade killed by tricycle ahead of popular festival
A tragic incident has marred the annual Imo Awka Festival in Awka, Anambra State, as a masquerade was fatally struck by a tricycle (Keke NAPEP) on Sunday.
The accident occurred while the masquerade was walking along the road. Eyewitnesses reported that the tricycle ran into him, crushing his head. The driver was immediately apprehended at the scene.
“It was a terrible sight the masquerade was hit, and his head was crushed,” one witness said.
The Imo Awka Festival, known for drawing large crowds from across Nigeria and beyond, is scheduled to officially begin on May 19 and conclude on May 24.
In previous years, police enforced traffic restrictions to manage crowd movement and ensure safety during the festival. However, it remains unclear whether such measures are being implemented this year.
The week-long celebration features colorful displays of masquerades parading through the streets.
However, recurring accidents during past editions have raised ongoing concerns about public safety during the festivities.
