Details have emerged about the identity and background of the young masquerade boy who tragically lost his life while participating in the annual Awka community festival known as Imo Awka on Sunday.
9News Nigeria recalls that the boy, who was clad in a masquerade costume, died after being hit by a moving tricycle (Keke Napep) while parading along Ogechukwu Street, off Arthur Eze Avenue, in their usual manner, during the cultural celebrations.
It was gathered that the impact of the tricycle crushed his head, leading to his death on the spot, with his blood splashed on the road.
Meanwhile, new information has it that the deceased 17-year-old boy, whose name was given as Frank Anne is a native of Okperi Village in Amikwo Awka.
He was said to be the first and only surviving son in his family before his death.
According to a source close to the family, who disclosed this in an interview with this reporter, the tragic accident was not the first blow the bereaved family had suffered in recent times, as Frank’s elder brother had also died earlier this year.
The source said, “With Frank’s demise, the family is now left with only two daughters, a development that has thrown them into deep mourning.
“In fact, it’s a double tragedy. His elder brother died earlier this year, and now Frank too. It’s a very shocking loss for the family.”
Information has it that the boy was also buried on Sunday after the incident, given the family’s financial situation and lack of resources to preserve the body in the mortuary.
Frank’s death has continued to generate reactions across Awka and beyond, with many residents expressing concern over the continued loss of lives during the yearly age-long festival, while others question the rationale behind involving teenagers and children in such high-risk masquerade street processions without adequate safety measures in place.
This is not the first time someone has died during Imo Awka. There should be better regulation and protection for those who participate in the masquerade displays,” a netizen lamented.
Social media platforms have also been awash with mixed reactions. While some users sympathized with the bereaved family and condemned the tragic accident, others mocked the idea that a “masquerade”could die, raising cultural and theological questions about the nature of masquerades.
The Imo Awka Festival, with different kinds of masquerade displays taking over the major roads in Awka is one of the most revered cultural festivals in Awka Kingdom.
The festival which is an annual event that takes place mostly in the month of May symbolizes the return of ancestral spirits, but it is usually marred by unexpected deaths.
Meanwhile, some critics have called on cultural custodians to rethink the location and method of hosting such festivals, suggesting a designation of a village square or community arenas, for the displays instead of major roads, to avoid further loss of lives.
