Akwa Ibom Police Arrest Masquerade Disrupting Public Peace After Statewide Ban

Uyo, Akwa Ibom State– The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has arrested a man identified as David Effiong, an indigene of the state, after he was allegedly found disrupting public peace while dressed in masquerade regalia, despite a subsisting ban on masquerade activities.

Effiong was apprehended in line with Governor Pastor Umo Eno’s directive proscribing public masquerade displays following repeated incidents of harassment, destruction of property, and violent attacks linked to some masquerade groups across the state.

Confirming the arrest on Tuesday, the State Commissioner of Police, CP Baba Azare, described the conduct of the suspect as “a clear act of public nuisance,” adding that Effiong would be charged to court once investigations are concluded.

According to the police, many masquerades in recent months have become a menace, defying multiple warnings from security agencies and community leaders.

The ban, officials say, followed complaints from residents who alleged intimidation, extortion, and in some cases, assault by individuals hiding under cultural displays.

The Command further issued a public advisory urging residents to immediately report any sighting of masquerades anywhere in the state. Members of the public can contact the Police Control Room via 08020913810 or  08039213071 for prompt arrest and prosecution.