Wetin suppose be cultural display don allegedly turn another matter for Akwa Ibom State, as operatives of the State Police Command arrest two Ekpo masquerade participants over alleged intimidation, assault and extortion of members of the public. According to information from our source, the suspects allegedly dey use masquerade activities as cover to terrorise innocent residents and collect money from unsuspecting people. E be like say some people don misunderstand the difference between preserving cultural heritage and turning public roads into unofficial collection centres!
POLICE ARREST TWO SUSPECTS DURING OPERATION
According to reports, the two suspects, identified as Ine Isong, 29, and Emmanuel Ekpenyong, 20, were arrested on October 26, 2026, around 6pm along Ukana/Abak Highway during an operational show of force by police operatives. The police reportedly recovered Ekpo masquerade costumes and other traditional attire from the suspects, alongside other items. The Command said preliminary investigations suggested that the suspects and other individuals allegedly involved had been terrorising residents and demanding money from unsuspecting members of the public.
Even more concerning, the police reportedly received information that some innocent residents, particularly women, had suffered assault during the alleged activities. This development don raise serious questions about the safety of ordinary people going about their daily businesses. After all, masquerade activities suppose represent cultural identity and tradition, no be opportunity to turn innocent citizens into compulsory financial contributors!
POLICE DRAW LINE BETWEEN CULTURE AND CRIMINALITY
The Akwa Ibom State Commissioner of Polic, CP Baba Mohammed Azare, reportedly warned that the Command would not tolerate anybody using cultural practices or masquerade activities as cover for intimidation, extortion, assault or other criminal activities. The police also made it clear that although lawful cultural traditions deserve respect, nobody should use tradition as permission to violate the rights and freedom of other people.
Interestingly, another development emerged on November 14, 2026, when the police reportedly arrested two additional Ekpo masquerade participants, Godspower Ubong and Blessing Jumbo, along Etim Ekpo-Azumini Road. According to the police, the latest suspects allegedly blocked part of the road, disrupted movement and demanded money from motorists and pedestrians. Two knives were reportedly recovered during their arrest. This second incident suggests that the authorities are still confronting concerns surrounding alleged misuse of masquerade activities in parts of the state.
As investigations continue, the police have urged residents to report suspicious activities, unlawful roadblocks, intimidation and suspected criminal conduct to security agencies. The important message remains clear: cultural heritage deserves protection, but public safety and individual rights must never become the price people pay for cultural celebrations.
For now, OGM News Pidgin go continue to monitor the matter as investigations unfold and authorities work to identify other people allegedly connected to these activities. Make everybody respect culture, respect the law and allow innocent citizens to move around without fear of compulsory roadside contributions. Stay with OGM News Pidgin for further updates!
Table of Contents
Discover more from OGM News NG
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
