Cultural celebration goes wrong in Akwa Ibom as police arrest 3 masquerades
Police in Akwa Ibom State have detained three masquerades after they reportedly injured several people during the Ekid Day celebration in Eket Local Government Area.
The three suspects, whose names were withheld, were presented to the media at the State Police Command headquarters in Uyo on Monday by Commissioner of Police, Baba Mohammad Azare.
Victims of the incident are receiving treatment at various hospitals across the state.
CP Azare explained that the arrests followed violations of a state executive order by Governor Umo Eno, which prohibits masquerades from appearing on public streets without prior approval and police supervision.
“We are enforcing the Executive Order to ensure masquerade activities take place only in approved areas under security coverage,” he said.
2025 Police achievements
The commissioner also highlighted the Command’s performance for the year.
Officers recovered 179 firearms and 323 rounds of ammunition, while 563 suspects were arrested for various offences and charged to court.
In addition, 14 stolen vehicles were recovered and returned, 74 human trafficking victims were rescued and reunited with families, and 10 kidnapped persons were freed.
The police secured 33 convictions during the year, reinforcing their commitment to public safety.
As a Nigerian and an African, do you think the Governor did the right thing by banning masquerades from major streets and highways?
