November 01, (THEWILL) — The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has arrested and prosecuted the leader of a masquerade group and one accomplice for allegedly blocking a public highway, assaulting citizens, and extorting money under the guise of cultural display, in violation of the state government’s directive restricting such activities.
The Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Timfon John, disclosed this in a statement on Thursday, noting that the arrests followed a distress call from a concerned citizen reporting that the group, armed with machetes, spears, and sticks, had attacked passersby, including National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members, while demanding tolls along a village road.
Investigations revealed that the group’s leader, identified as 45-year-old Uwem Umanah, had authorized members of the “Ekpo” masquerade society to parade publicly despite an existing state government ban on unregulated masquerade outings.
Another suspect, David Michael, 34, was arrested at Ukana Onuk Village while allegedly preparing to invade the area in full masquerade costume. Both suspects, police confirmed, have been charged to court following thorough investigation.
Commissioner of Police, CP Baba Mohammed Azare, reaffirmed the Command’s zero tolerance for lawlessness, warning that no cultural practice or tradition would be allowed to threaten public safety or violate citizens’ rights.
He assured residents that the police would continue enforcing the state’s directive on masquerade activities, which restricts such displays to approved festivals under strict supervision to prevent violence and criminality.
“The Command will not tolerate any act of intimidation or extortion under the guise of cultural expression,” Azare stated.
He urged community leaders to cooperate with security agencies to sustain peace and order across the state.
The Akwa Ibom State Government had earlier cautioned that masquerade displays outside approved traditional settings would be treated as public disturbances, emphasising that culture must not be used as a cover for criminal acts.
The police, therefore, urged residents to remain law-abiding and to promptly report suspicious activities, assuring that the Command remains committed to ensuring that all communities across the state remain safe and peaceful.
