The Police command in Uyo, Akwa Ibom on Sunday warned that the ban on masquerades parades is still in force in Akwa Ibom explaining why the decision was arrived at.
In a statement issued by the Police spokesman in the state, SP Odiko Macdon, he reiterated that the ban was till in place and there was no plan to lift it anytime soon.
He went on to explain that the ban became necessary following violent and lawless actions of masquerades leading to murders, threats to lives, assaults and other breaches to fundamental rights.
‘A case in point is the `EKONG’ in Mbak Ikot Abasi and Mbak Ikot Idiongo Villages in Mbak Etoi in Etoi Clan, Uyo,’ he stated.
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Africa Daily News, New York reports that the Police has also outlawed a curfew imposed by masquerades on the communities to take effect from dusk to dawn on Aug. 20, 22, 27 and 29.
The curfew infringed on the fundamental rights of the people to move freely and to associate, Macdon stated.
He quoted the Commissioner of Police, Mr Olatoye Durosinmi as warning that anyone who flouted the ban would face the wrath of the law.
Macdon went on to call on law-abiding citizens to go about their lawful duties without fear of molestation as the police would spare no efforts at ensuring their safety.
Africa Daily News, New York reports that masquerades is part of the cultural heritage of many cultures in Nigeria as it has grown to become part of the people.
It remains to be seen how the people of the state will continue to react to the ban by the police command.
