The Onitsha Traditional Council, Ime Obi Onicha, has condemned the recent display of masquerades openly supporting a political candidate in the forthcoming Anambra State gubernatorial election.
In a statement made available to 108scoop.com, the Onitsha Traditional Council stated that the act, widely captured on video and photographs, constitutes a blatant disregard for the revered traditions and customs of the Onitsha people.
The statement was signed by Chief Osita Anionwu, Ike Akatakwuani of Onitsha, Chief of Staff, Onitsha Traditional Council.
It noted that the Traditional Council views this development as 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, embraced modernity and maintained the Integrity of their traditions.
’Masquerades, as sacred embodiments of the ancestors, play a vital role in the spiritual and communal life of the Onitsha people.
’’Their association with political movements or candidates undermines the spiritual authority and communal purpose they serve,’’ the Council said.
The Traditional Council notes with concern the increasing trend of external interference in Onitsha’s cultural practices, particularly the use of masquerades from outside Onitsha to influence local customs and traditions.
’We stress that these masquerades are alien to Onitsha and have no place in our cultural landscape,’’ the Council noted in anger.
In light of the development, the Onitsha Traditional Council calls on the security agencies to collaborate with its traditional institution to ensure that such incidents do not recur in the future.
The Traditional Council, however, urged all stakeholders, including political aspirants and their supporters, to respect the cultural heritage of Onitsha and refrain from using sacred institutions for political gain.
The council also warned that the politicization of cultural symbols could potentially lead to undesirable division and conflict among the people of Onitsha.
It appealed to its subjects to remain united, strong, and vigilant, and fiercely protect the integrity of their traditions, adding that the Onitsha Traditional Council is fully committed to continuing to uphold and defend the cultural values that have always refined its people.
