September 18, (THEWILL) — The Akwa Ibom State Commissioner of Police, Baba Mohammed Azare, has warned individuals and groups in the state against using masquerade festivals as a cover for criminal activities.
The warning is contained in a statement issued by DSP Timfon John, the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) of the State Police Command.
Timfon quotes CP Azare as expressing deep concern and disappointment over the recent trend, in which some masquerades, traditionally symbols of cultural heritage, entertainment, and celebration, have been involved in a range of illicit acts.
These, he said, included aiding and abetting crimes, illegal possession of firearms, assaulting members of the public unjustly and peddling of hard drugs.
“Masquerades are meant to bring joy and showcase our rich cultural identity, not to serve as a disguise for criminal elements. It is utterly disheartening to see this revered tradition being desecrated by a few misguided individuals who are tarnishing our cultural values”, Azare said.
He warned that the Command would no longer tolerate this menace and that anyone caught using masquerade costumes to perpetrate such heinous acts would face the full wrath of the law.
He said the Command would intensify its intelligence-gathering efforts and operations to identify and apprehend those involved.
“My message to these criminals is clear: desist from these acts immediately or be prepared to face the consequences. The long arm of the law will catch up with you, and you will be brought to book. We will not allow a few bad apples to spoil the reputation of our vibrant cultural heritage”, the commissioner further warned.
He urged community leaders, traditional rulers and the general public to cooperate with law enforcement agencies by providing credible information that could “help in nipping this disturbing trend in the bud.”
Abdullahi Yusuf is a seasoned journalist, communicator and was previously the Deputy Editor-In-Chief and Zonal Manager, News Agency of Nigeria, NAN, Jos, where he retired on December 15, 2021
