The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has arrested three masquerades over alleged violent attacks during a cultural celebration in the state.
The suspects were arrested during the Ekid Day celebration held in Eket Local Government Area and were paraded at the Command’s headquarters in Uyo on Monday by the Commissioner of Police, CP Baba Mohammad Azare.
Executive order and police position
According to CP Azare, those injured by the masquerades are currently receiving treatment at undisclosed hospitals across the state.
He said the suspects’ actions violated a standing Executive Order signed by Governor Umo Eno, which restricts masquerade displays on public streets without prior approval and police supervision.
The police commissioner reiterated that while the government respects cultural traditions, public safety remains paramount.
He stressed that masquerade activities are only permitted in approved locations and must be conducted with adequate security coverage to prevent violence and disorder.
Social media reactions
@ShaqWiziskIN commented: “The gods are going behind barz. Ibudu later nah.”
@n_ikay commented: “Masquerade wey get first name and last name na Mad-Squirrel.”
@joyishere22 commented: “Gods wey no fit appear and disappear, that one na gods?”
@aktogba commented: “Ojúju Calabar in Kirikiri Maximum Prison.”
@ItsHimOlaa commented: “The gods have been arrested.”
Watch the video below…
Akwa Ibom Police Command has arrested three masquerades for inflicting injvries on residents. The gods go do Christmas and New year inside cell kee? 😭 pic.twitter.com/QAPXNadPZx
— TENIOLA (@Teeniiola) December 23, 2025