07/10/2025
AKWA IBOM STATE POLICE COMMAND
PRESS RELEASE
The Akwa Ibom State Police Command wishes to draw the attention of the general public once again to the persistent unlawful activities of certain masquerades across the State, despite the earlier warning issued on 18th September, 2025, where the Command strongly cautioned individuals and groups against using masquerade festivals as a cover for criminal acts.
The Commissioner of Police, CP Baba Mohammed Azare, fsi, had expressed grave concern over the disturbing trend in which some masquerades, rather than promoting cultural heritage, resorted to acts of violence, intimidation, extortion, and other criminal behaviours in clear violation of the Akwa Ibom State Masquerades (Control) Law, Cap. 94, Laws of Akwa Ibom State, 2022.
Regrettably, recent intelligence and verified reports indicate that some masquerades have continued to engage in illegal processions, assaulting innocent citizens, causing injuries, forcefully demanding money, and straying from authorized routes without obtaining due approval from the appropriate authorities, these acts constitute serious breaches of public peace and disregard for lawful order.
The Command hereby reaffirms its earlier directive that no masquerade, group, or individual shall organize or participate in any public masquerade outing or procession without first obtaining a permit from the Commissioner of Police, as required by law.
All village heads, community heads, and organizers of masquerade activities are therefore reminded of their legal responsibility to ensure full compliance.
For clarity, the following acts remain criminal offences under the Masquerades control Law: Unauthorized public outing or procession by masquerades without police approval, Straying of masquerades from designated or permitted routes, Intimidation, harassment, or assault of members of the public, Breaking into homes or demanding with threats, Use of masquerade costumes as disguise for criminal acts such as drug peddling, extortion, and violence.
The Command will not hesitate to arrest and prosecute any masquerade, sponsor, or organizer found culpable of violating these provisions. Law enforcement operations and surveillance have been strengthened to identify and apprehend offenders wherever they may operate in the State.
The Commissioner of Police, CP Baba Mohammed Azare, fsi, while reiterating the Command’s commitment to preserving the cultural values of Akwa Ibom people, warns that cultural celebration must not degenerate into criminality.
The CP assures law-abiding residents of continuous police protection and urges community leaders, traditional rulers, and the general public to report any infraction or suspicious activity involving masquerades to the nearest police station.
The Command appreciates the cooperation of all citizens and stakeholders in maintaining peace, law, and order in the State.
Signed:
DSP Timfon John, LLB, ANIPR
Police Public Relations Officer
Akwa Ibom State Police Command