The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has again cautioned residents and organizers of masquerade festivals across the state against engaging in unlawful activities under the guise of cultural celebration.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Timfon John, said the Command’s warning follows continued reports of violent and criminal acts perpetrated by some masquerades despite an earlier public notice issued on September 18, 2025.
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According to the statement, the Commissioner of Police, CP Baba Mohammed Azare, fsi, expressed grave concern over the disturbing trend where certain masquerades, instead of promoting cultural values, resort to violence, intimidation, extortion, and other acts in clear violation of the Akwa Ibom State Masquerades (Control) Law, Cap. 94, Laws of Akwa Ibom State, 2022.
“Recent intelligence and verified reports indicate that some masquerades have continued to engage in illegal processions, assault innocent citizens, cause injuries, and demand money by force, often straying from authorized routes without approval,” the statement read in part.
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The Command reaffirmed that no masquerade, group, or individual is permitted to organize or participate in any public outing or procession without first obtaining a permit from the Commissioner of Police, as stipulated by law.
It also reminded village heads, community leaders, and organizers of their legal responsibility to ensure strict compliance with the Masquerade Control Law.
The following acts, the Command emphasized, remain criminal offences under the law:
Unauthorized masquerade outings or processions without police approval
Straying from designated or permitted routes
Intimidation, harassment, or assault of citizens
Forced entry into home or extortion under threat
Using masquerade costumes as disguises for criminal acts, including drug peddling, extortion, and violence
The Police Command warned that anyone — including masquerades, sponsors, or organizers — found culpable will face arrest and prosecution. It added that surveillance and law enforcement operations have been intensified to track offenders across the state.
While reiterating his commitment to preserving Akwa Ibom’s cultural heritage, CP Azare cautioned that “cultural celebration must not degenerate into criminality.”
He assured law-abiding residents of continuous police protection and urged traditional rulers, community leaders, and the public to promptly report any suspicious masquerade activity to the nearest police station.
The statement concluded with an appreciation of citizens’ cooperation in maintaining peace, law, and order across the state.