Akwa Ibom Man Arrested For Violating Statewide Masquerade Ban

The Akwa Ibom State Police have arrested David Effiong, an indigene of the state, for allegedly causing a public disturbance while dressed in full masquerade attire, despite a standing ban on such activities.

Residents reported on Tuesday that a masquerader was creating chaos and allegedly damaging property in the community, prompting police action.

The arrest is part of intensified enforcement of Governor Pastor Umo Eno’s statewide ban on public masquerade displays, aimed at curbing violence, intimidation, and property destruction linked to masqueraders.

Confirming the arrest, Commissioner of Police Baba Azare said Effiong would be prosecuted in court.

Governor Eno had issued the ban, emphasizing the need for public safety. “By my office as Governor of Akwa Ibom State, anyone caught violating this order will be arrested and tried. Masquerades have been used to terrorize communities, and this ends now,” he said.

He further directed security agencies, saying, “As Chief Security Officer of the state, I instruct the Commissioner of Police and other security heads to apprehend and prosecute anyone breaching this directive. Peace must be restored, and public safety upheld. Masquerade activities are hereby banned across the state.”