By:Abdullahi Inuwa
The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has cracked down on violent masquerade activities in Etinan Local Government Area, arresting three suspects after a late-afternoon breach of public peace sent panic through Mbioto II Village.
The swift intervention followed a distress call received at about 4:45 p.m. on Friday, January 23, 2026, reporting that masquerades had allegedly turned a cultural display into chaos, unleashing violence and intimidation on residents. Within minutes, Police operatives stormed the area and arrested two suspected masquerades along with their alleged leader, effectively restoring calm.
Those in custody are Kenneth Bassey (31), Ofonime Isaac (25) and Paul Samuel Bassey (21). Police sources said the suspects are being interrogated and are assisting investigators as efforts continue to unravel the full circumstances surrounding the incident.
Reacting to the development, the Commissioner of Police, Baba Mohammad Azare, praised his officers for their prompt response and sent a strong warning to individuals who hide behind tradition to foment trouble.
While reaffirming respect for Akwa Ibom’s rich cultural heritage, the Police boss stressed that any activity—traditional or otherwise—that degenerates into violence or threatens public peace will be firmly dealt with.
“Culture must unite, not terrorise,” he said, adding that the Command will continue to act decisively against all forms of lawlessness.
The Police Command urged residents to remain law-abiding and to promptly report suspicious activities, assuring the public that the safety of lives and property remains a top priority across the state.
