The Akwa Ibom State Government has officially banned masquerade displays on streets and major highways, following increasing reports of harassment, extortion and disruption of public order across the state.
Governor Umo Eno signed the Executive Order reinforcing the ban on Tuesday at Government House, Uyo. He said the decision became necessary after several troubling incidents linked to masquerade activities in different communities.
According to a statement released on Wednesday, the governor had earlier announced the proscription last week but formally reaffirmed it while signing the order. He instructed the Commissioner of Police and all security agencies to enforce it strictly.
“By the authority of my office as Governor, I am issuing this order: anyone caught violating it will be arrested and prosecuted. Masquerade activities have caused havoc in some local government areas,” Eno said.
He emphasised that while Akwa Ibom values its cultural heritage, no tradition should infringe on the rights or safety of citizens.
“We have all witnessed the nuisance this has created. Along the highways, they stop cars abruptly, intimidate people, and sometimes even cause accidents. Just two weeks ago, a young woman was stripped and flogged by these masquerades. Culture is important, but no culture should harm or violate anyone,” the governor added.
Eno reminded residents that a 2022 law already mandates police clearance for such displays. He insisted that anyone wishing to celebrate masquerades must restrict activities to village squares—not public roads.
“If you want to play masquerade, do it in your village square, not on the streets. Do not disrupt public peace. We cannot allow chaos,” he warned.
The governor urged residents to familiarise themselves with the new order and support efforts to maintain peace, especially as the festive season is expected to attract more visitors to the state. He noted that the ban aligns with his administration’s ARISE Agenda to promote tourism and ensure a safe environment.
“We want tourists and visitors to feel safe. We cannot tolerate anything that scares people away,” he said.
The Commissioner of Police, Baba Azare, praised the governor’s directive, describing it as timely and essential. He said the order now provides security agencies with clear authority to check masquerade-related violence, intimidation and obstruction across the 31 local government areas.
Azare confirmed that enforcement has already begun, with instructions issued to area commanders and tactical units to ensure full compliance throughout the state.
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