Anambra Poll:Onitsha Traditional Council Condemns Use of Masquerades for Campaigns!

Reported by Marian Opeyemi Fasesan | Sele Media Africa

Ahead of the November 8, 2025, governorship election in Anambra State, the Onitsha Traditional Council—Ime Obi Onicha—has issued a stern warning against the politicisation of masquerade traditions for campaign activities.

Key Highlights:

• In a statement issued in Onitsha, the council said using masquerades for political rallies “desecrates ancestral customs” and undermines the spiritual essence of the cultural practice.
• The council reaffirmed that masquerades are sacred symbols of ancestral presence and not tools for political theatrics.
• Offenders risk sanctions ranging from public denouncement to traditional penalties, including being barred from community rites.

Why It Matters:

• Masquerades are deeply respected across Igbo land, especially in Onitsha, where they play roles in festivals and rituals.
• The warning signals rising concern over how culture is being co-opted for political gain in the South-East.
• With electioneering heating up, the Ime Obi is calling on politicians to respect local traditions and focus on issue-based campaigns.

Cultural Stake:

This move reinforces efforts by traditional authorities to protect indigenous practices from modern political manipulation.

About The Author

Marian Opeyemi Fasesan

Marian Opeyemi Fasesan is a dynamic journalist and editorial leader committed to excellence in news reporting and storytelling. As the Managing Editor of Sele Media Africa, she ensures daily operations run smoothly while upholding the highest editorial standards. With a strong eye for detail and deep understanding of audience engagement, Marian coordinates content across platforms, guiding teams to produce compelling, timely, and credible news. Her leadership reflects the heart of Sele Media Africa’s mission—to inform, inspire, and elevate voices across the continent.

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