RismadarVoice Reporter,December 3, 2025
Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno has signed a new Executive Order prohibiting the display and activities of masquerades on streets and highways across the state, citing growing concerns over insecurity, harassment, and public nuisance.
The signing, which took place at Government House, Uyo, marks a decisive attempt by the administration to guarantee a peaceful and orderly atmosphere during the Christmas season.
Governor Eno said while he holds deep respect for the cultural values and traditions of the people, recent events including cases of violence, road obstruction, and the assault of a young woman, necessitated immediate action.
“All of us are living witnesses to the embarrassment and nuisance this has caused,” the governor said. “We’ve seen how they block highways, disrupt traffic, and in some cases cause accidents. Two weeks ago, a young woman was stripped naked and flogged by these masquerades. No culture should cause harm or infringe on the rights of others.”
The governor clarified that the order does not outlaw masquerades entirely but restricts their display to village squares and approved cultural settings.
He warned against any attempt to violate the order under the guise of culture, adding that the state’s 2022 law already requires police clearance for such activities.
“I’m not saying don’t play masquerade,” he emphasized. “But don’t disturb public peace. Restrict it to your village square.”
Governor Eno urged residents to familiarize themselves with the law and support efforts to protect the state’s growing reputation as a peaceful tourism destination under the ARISE Agenda.
He commended security agencies for their cooperation in maintaining order, especially during the festive season.
Earlier, the State Commissioner of Police, CP Baba Azare, praised the Executive Order as timely and necessary, noting that masquerade-related disturbances had escalated into violence, intimidation, and obstruction of lawful activities in several communities.
He assured the governor of immediate and full enforcement across all 31 local government areas, adding that operational directives had already been issued to Area and Tactical Commanders.
“The Executive Order gives us the legal backing to act promptly and professionally in restoring public order,” he said.
The state government says the move aims to safeguard residents and visitors while preserving cultural expressions in a controlled, non-disruptive manner.
