Stop Using Masquerades To Perpetuate Criminal Activities—Police Commissioner Warns
Henceforth, individuals and groups using masquerade festivals as a cover for criminal activities will be made to face the full weight of the law in Akwa Ibom State.
The State Commissioner of Police, CP Baba Mohammed Azare, fsi, issued the stern warning in a press release issued in Uyo on Thursday, September 18, 2025.
DSP Timfon John, the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Akwa Ibom State Police Command, who signed the press release, said the Command, under the leadership of the Commissioner of Police, will not condone
criminal activities under any guise whatsoever.
“CP Azare expressed deep concern and disappointment over the recent trend where some masquerades, which are traditionally symbols of cultural heritage, entertainment, and celebration, have been involved in a range of illicit acts.
“These include aiding and abetting crimes, illegal possession of firearms, assaulting members of the public unjustly and peddling of hard drugs.
“Masquerades are meant to bring joy and showcase our rich cultural identity, not to serve as a disguise for criminal elements.
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It is utterly disheartening to see this revered tradition being desecrated by a few misguided individuals who are tarnishing our cultural values,” CP Azare stated.
The Commissioner emphasised that the Police Command will no longer tolerate this menace.
He warned that “anyone caught using masquerade costumes to perpetrate such heinous acts will face the full wrath of the law. The Command will intensify its intelligence-gathering efforts and operations to identify and apprehend those involved.
“My message to these criminals is clear: desist from these acts immediately or be prepared to face the consequences. The long arm of the law will catch up with you, and you will be brought to book. We will not allow a few bad apples to spoil the reputation of our vibrant cultural heritage,” CP Azare added.
The Akwa Ibom State Police Command further called on community leaders, traditional rulers, and the general public to cooperate with law enforcement agencies by providing credible information that can help in nipping this disturbing trend in the bud.
