Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, has officially banned masquerade displays across the state, citing public safety and order concerns.
The Christmas season in Akwa Ibom is usually marked by colorful masquerade performances along streets and in villages.
However, Governor Eno stated that such displays have increasingly caused public disorder, extortion, and fear among residents.
Eno announced the ban during the 25th wedding anniversary of Hon. Precious Selong and Barr. Edem Selong, a Permanent Secretary in the state civil service, held at Methodist Church Nigeria, 67 Udo Umana Street, on Sunday.
He directed the Commissioner of Police and other security agencies to arrest and prosecute anyone caught displaying masquerades on public streets.
Local government chairmen were also instructed to exclude masquerades from cultural presentations at the Christmas festival celebrations, which begin on 1 December 2025.
Speaking at the event, Governor Eno said:
“This year’s Christmas celebration opens tomorrow.
We will begin with Christmas Unplugged at the Christmas Village. I stand on this altar to say: no masquerades in that place. I am not endorsing it.
Don’t bring traditions where people carry masks and smoke oozes from their mouths and heads.
This is a Christian state. Let us not awaken anything that would not edify God.
“By my office as Governor of Akwa Ibom State, we ban masquerades in our streets.
They are using it to terrorise people, extort money, and frighten innocent citizens. Anyone caught will be arrested and prosecuted.
As the chief security officer of the state, I am directing the Commissioner of Police and other security agencies to enforce this order.
Let it stop terrorising people so that they can enjoy peace. We will continue to promote our culture, but we will not promote harmful tradition.”
The governor’s decision underscores the state government’s focus on ensuring peaceful festivities while regulating cultural practices that may pose risks to citizens.