The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has paraded three masquerades accused of inflicting injuries on residents in the state.
According to police authorities, the victims are currently receiving treatment at an undisclosed hospital.
The arrested masquerades were identified as Samuel Ime, Kingsley Samuel, and Idiome Samuel.
Earlier, the Akwa Ibom State Governor, Umo Eno, announced a statewide ban on masquerade displays on streets and highways, stating that the decision was aimed at protecting residents and maintaining public order during the festive season.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, the governor had said: “I signed an Executive Order banning masquerade activities on the streets and highways of Akwa Ibom State.”
He explained that the decision followed rising concerns over public disturbances linked to recent masquerade outings. “This decision was necessary to protect our people from the harassment, violence, and public disorder these activities have recently caused.”
While acknowledging the cultural significance of masquerades, Governor Eno stressed that public safety must remain a priority. “I fully respect our culture, but no cultural practice should endanger lives or disrupt public peace.”
He clarified that such displays would only be permitted within designated traditional spaces. “If anyone wishes to display masquerades, it must be confined to village squares—not our streets, not our communities.”
With the state expecting an influx of visitors during the Christmas season, the governor said maintaining order was essential. “As we welcome thousands of visitors this Christmas season, we must show that Akwa Ibom is peaceful, orderly, and safe.”
He added that law enforcement agencies have been directed to enforce the ban across the state. “I have directed security agencies to enforce this order across all 31 LGAs.”
Reassuring residents of his administration’s commitment to cultural preservation, Governor Eno noted: “We will continue to promote our rich culture and tourism, but never at the expense of public safety or human dignity.”
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