The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has sounded the alarm over the misuse of masquerade festivals, warning that criminals hiding behind cultural traditions to commit offenses will face swift prosecution.
Commissioner of Police Baba Mohammed Azare, fsi, said the Command has observed an unsettling trend: some masquerades—once regarded as cherished symbols of heritage and unity—are now being used to aid crimes, intimidate residents, traffic drugs, and even carry illegal firearms.
“Masquerades are meant to bring joy and showcase our rich cultural identity, not serve as a disguise for criminal elements,” Azare told reporters on Wednesday.
“It is disheartening to see this revered tradition desecrated by a few misguided individuals.”
The Commissioner stressed that the Command will intensify intelligence operations and step up enforcement ahead of upcoming festivals. He warned that offenders who weaponize masquerade costumes would be treated as criminals, not cultural performers.
“Desist from these acts immediately or be prepared to face the consequences. The long arm of the law will catch up with you,” Azare said. “We will not allow a few bad apples to spoil the reputation of our vibrant cultural heritage.”
The police further appealed to community leaders and traditional rulers to help restore discipline to masquerade practices and to encourage festival organizers to register events and share security information with law enforcement.
Observers note that masquerade festivals, common across southern Nigeria, are a major cultural attraction that also stimulate local economies. However, in recent years, some have been marred by violence, extortion, and drug-related crimes, prompting repeated warnings from authorities.
Akwa Ibom’s warning is the latest in a series of moves by police commands in the South-South to curb insecurity without undermining indigenous traditions. Civil society groups have applauded the statement, urging a community-driven approach to preserve culture while protecting public safety.
Police Public Relations Officer DSP Timfon John signed the statement, assuring residents that credible information shared with security agencies would be treated confidentially to dismantle the networks abusing masquerade culture.