The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has arrested a man identified as David Effiong for allegedly causing public disturbance while dressed in full masquerade attire, an act said to be in violation of the state government’s directive banning such displays.
The suspect was picked up on Tuesday after residents alerted security operatives that a masquerader was disrupting peace and destroying property within their community.
The confirmation came through a statement from the State Commissioner of Police, CP Baba Azare, who noted that the arrest was in line with ongoing enforcement of the government’s position on masquerade activities.
The Commissioner said the suspect remains in custody and will be charged in court after investigations. He explained, “The suspect is in custody and will be arraigned as soon as investigations are concluded.”
The arrest follows intensified implementation of Governor Umo Eno’s statewide ban on masquerade outings.
The directive was introduced after frequent reports of violence, intimidation and property damage linked to masqueraders across several local government areas.
Police authorities reaffirmed their commitment to enforcing the ban and urged residents to support ongoing efforts by reporting any violations to the nearest security formation.
