The Nigeria Police Force in Akwa Ibom State has arrested a group of individuals dressed as masquerades for allegedly violating government regulations on public displays.
Police authorities said the arrests were made on April 23, 2026, along the Onna–Ikot Abasi Road as the group traveled toward Onna Local Government Area. The individuals were reportedly on their way to carry out a performance considered likely to disrupt public peace.
According to the command, the operation followed a directive issued by the Commissioner of Police, Baba Mohammed Azare, which prohibits unauthorized masquerade activities outside designated venues such as village squares and town halls without prior approval.
Preliminary investigations indicate that the suspects were allegedly hired from Atabong Village in Eket Local Government Area to perform at a burial ceremony in Ndon Eyo Village, Onna LGA—an arrangement police say contravenes existing safety guidelines.
The suspects remain in police custody and are expected to be charged in court. Authorities have also launched efforts to identify and apprehend the individual who engaged their services.