Police arrest three masquerades for unauthorized street display in Akwa Ibom
Three masquerades were arrested in Akwa Ibom for allegedly causing harm during a street display without police approval. The arrests took place during the Ekid Day celebration in Eket, as confirmed by Commissioner Baba Azare on June 5, 2025. Injured victims are currently receiving treatment in undisclosed hospitals. The incident follows a recent executive order by Governor Umo Eno restricting masquerade activities.
What happened
- The masquerades were arrested during the Ekid Day event on June 1, 2025, for violating the executive order signed by Governor Umo Eno.
- Police Commissioner Baba Azare stated that the masquerades injured several people, who are now hospitalized.
- The new order bans masquerades from street displays without police approval to curb insecurity and public disorder.
- In 2025, the police recovered 179 arms, arrested 563 suspects, and rescued 74 human trafficking victims.
- The command previously arrested a masquerade group leader, Uwem Umanah, in November for alleged criminal activities.
