Masquerade Ban Affects Only Streets, Highways In A’Ibom – Gov Eno
Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, has said that the ban on masquerade activities is not absolute, but only on the streets and highways of the State.
He explained that traditionalists who use the masquerade as a symbol of worship are free to do so but within village squares or some confined areas to avoid disrupting public peace.
Governor Eno offered the explanations in his remarks at the funeral of the late Mrs Rose Linus Okon, held at the State Cenotaph in Uyo.
“I have not banned masquerades in the State. I only banned masquerades from the streets to stop them from continuing to be a threat to the lives of citizens and residents in the State.
“They are free to worship their Ekpo religion, but this must be confined to the squares within villages or their communities. Let their activities not infringe on the freedom of movement and the lives of others. Otherwise, they will face the law and be prosecuted accordingly,” he said.
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He noted that “while everyone has the right to freedom of worship, no one should allow his or her freedom of worship to affect the freedom of movement of others.”
He consoled Pastor Joe Linus, first son of the deceased, and other family members on the death of their mother and urged them to take solace in the fact that their mother lived a life devoted to the service of God and humanity.
“I want to thank God for her life and time and for the children that God has given to the family. However, even in your tears, you must thank God for the life that Mama lived – a life of sincere service to God and humanity,” he noted.
Governor Eno particularly commended Pastor Joe Linus for his remarkable sense of humility and service to God.
“Pastor Joe Linus is one servant-leader that I have come to admire greatly, and he served the late Rev. Uma Ukpai faithfully. Well done, my brother,” he said.
He, thereafter, appointed Pastor Linus as his Senior Special Assistant on Religious Matters with effect from January 2026, urging him to join forces with the Special Assistant on Religious Matters, the Honorary Special Adviser on Religious Matters, and the Government House Prayer Coordinator to provide spiritual support to the State through prayers.
In the governor’s entourage were the State Deputy Governor, Senator Akon Eyakenyi; Secretary to the State Government, Prince Enobong Uwah; members of the State Executive Council; political stalwarts; captains of industry; and government functionaries.
