Masquerade appearance during political campaign alien to us - Onitsha Traditional Council

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By Madu Obi

The Onitsha Traditional Council, has strongly condemned the alleged use of masquerades to endorse a political candidate in the ancient town ahead of the November 2025 Anambra governorship election, saying that such a thing is alien to Onitsha.

In a statement signed by Chief Osita Anionwu, the Chief of Staff to the Onitsha Traditional Council, the Ime Obi Onicha described the act as a “blatant desecration” of the revered cultural and spiritual heritage of the Onitsha people.

The council expressed concern over the viral videos and photographs showing masquerades openly displaying political allegiance, warning that such action amounted to “a dangerous precedent that threatens the sanctity and neutrality of Onitsha’s cultural institutions.”

Anionwu said; “For centuries, the people of Onitsha have preserved their unique cultural heritage while embracing modernity. Masquerades, as sacred embodiments of the ancestors play a vital role in our spiritual and communal life.

“Their association with political movements or candidates undermines the spiritual authority and communal purpose they serve.

These masquerades are alien to Onitsha and have no place in our cultural landscape.

We appeal to our subjects to remain united, vigilant, and committed to protecting the integrity of our traditions. The Onitsha Traditional Council remains steadfast in upholding and defending the cultural values that define us as a people."

He decried what he called the increasing interference of external groups in Onitsha’s traditional practices, particularly the alleged deployment of masquerades from outside the community, to influence local customs and sentiments.

While calling on security agencies to collaborate with the traditional authority to prevent a recurrence, the council further urged political aspirants and their supporters to respect the cultural sanctity of Onitsha, warning that politicizing cultural symbols could fuel division and conflict among the people.