Key Points
- The governor warns any masquerade parading in public will be arrested. He says police will prosecute offenders in court.
- Police will act on reports and arrest suspects immediately. The state says public order must be kept at all times.
- The move follows other Akwa Ibom security actions this year. Citizens are urged to report illegal public parading.
Akwa Ibom governor Umo Eno said masquerades seen parading on the streets will be detained and charged. He spoke after reports that masked groups had been moving through towns and cities across the state.
The governor warned anyone who parades a masquerade in public that they face arrest and court action. See Akwa Ibom government exposes consultants for recent state responses to security concerns.
Eno framed the policy as a simple safety step for citizens and visitors. He said the state will not allow public disorder or fear.
Eno’s warning
The governor told reporters the rule applies across the whole state. He named parading masquerades and masked groups as clear targets.
Police will arrest anyone breaking the rule without delay. They will hand suspects to courts that apply the law.
Some residents praised the governor for acting to curb street chaos. Other locals asked for clear rules about cultural events and festivals.
Local leaders said they will help calm things down where possible. They asked residents to report any unsafe public parading by phone.
A recent police raid shows the state has acted before on related cases. See Akwa Ibom police raid shrine for a past operation that revealed criminal activity.
Community elders warned that many masquerade displays are lawful when planned and safe. The elders asked organisers to seek permits and stick to set routes.
The governor said organisers who follow rules will have no trouble. He urged clear permits and co-operation with local police teams.
What happens next
Police will step up patrols in known parade areas and market centres. The state will publish details on how to request a permit.
Legal teams will review any arrests and guide prosecution where needed. Citizens accused of breaking the law will have a right to a fair hearing.
Officials said the rule aims to stop violence and protect women and children. They said the policy is not meant to ban all cultural events.
The governor closed by asking for calm and co-operation from residents. He said the state will balance festival life with public safety
