The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has announced the ban on masquerades across the state.
A statement by the Police spokesperson in the state, SP Odiko Macdon on Sunday, said the ban became necessary following violent and lawless actions of masquerades leading to murders, threats to lives, assaults, and other breaches of fundamental rights.
“A case in point is the ‘EKONG’ in Mbak Ikot Abasi and Mbak Ikot Idiongo Villages in Mbak Etoi in Etoi Clan, Uyo,” he stated.
The police also scrapped a curfew imposed by masquerades in Mbak Ikot Abasi and Mbak Ikot Idiongo villages in Mbak Etoi in Etoi Clan, Uyo.
According to the Police, the curfew infringed on the fundamental rights of the people to move freely and to associate.
Macdon quoted the Commissioner of Police, Mr. Olatoye Durosinmi as warning that anyone who flouted the ban would face the wrath of the law.
He advised law-abiding citizens to go about their lawful duties without fear of molestation as the police would spare no efforts at ensuring their safety.
