Masquerades have been spotted donning campaign materials of Chukwuma Soludo, governor of Anambra state, ahead of the November 8 governorship election.
The images, which have circulated widely across the state, show masquerades dressed in traditional regalia adorned with Soludo’s posters and campaign slogans.
The development has sparked conversation across communities about the intersection of culture and politics in the buildup to the polls.
In a statement on Tuesday, the Onitsha traditional council, known as Ime Obi Onicha, expressed concern over the public display of masquerades openly supporting a political candidate.
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Osita Anionwu, the Ike Akatakwuani of Onitsha and chief of staff to the council, described the act as a disregard for the revered traditions of Onitsha people.
The council said the development has set a “dangerous precedent” that threatens the sanctity and neutrality of Onitsha’s cultural institutions.
“For centuries, the people of Onitsha have successfully preserved their unique cultural heritage, embracing modernity while maintaining the integrity of their traditions,” the statement reads.
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“Masquerades, as sacred embodiments of the ancestors, play a vital role in the spiritual and communal life of Onitsha people. Their association with political movements or candidates undermines the spiritual authority and communal purpose they serve.”
The council expressed concern over increasing external interference in Onitsha’s cultural practices, particularly the use of masquerades from outside the community to influence local customs and traditions.
“We stress that these masquerades are alien to Onitsha and have no place in our cultural landscape,” the statement added.
The council called on security agencies to collaborate with traditional institutions to prevent a recurrence.
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The council urged all stakeholders, including political aspirants and their supporters, to respect Onitsha’s cultural heritage and refrain from exploiting sacred institutions for political gain.
Soludo, who is seeking re-election under the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), has not publicly commented on the matter.
His campaign has continued across LGAs, with emphasis on his administration’s investments in education, infrastructure, and security.
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