…vows to ensure enforcement of ban on Masquerade
By Ime Silas
The Commissioner of Police, Akwa Ibom State Command, CP Baba Azare has ordered for immediate arrest of any of his men found escorting unauthorized persons in contravention of the Inspector-General’s directive.
Speaking yesterday during a strategic meeting with senior Police Officers of the Command, the CP also announced fresh directives which he said were aimed at strengthening internal discipline as well as enhancing public safety across the state.
In a press release issued at the end of the meeting and signed by the Police Public Relations Officer, PPRO, Akwa Ibom State Command, DSP Timfon John, the CP was said to have expressed his deep concern over the increasing violation of the IGP’s directives.
According to the stat”The Commissioner of Police expressed deep concern over the increasing violation of the Inspector-General of Police’s directive prohibiting policemen from escorting unauthorized VIPs.
He therefore ordered the immediate arrest of any policeman found accompanying private individuals, politicians, or VIP not duly approved by the Force Headquarters. Such officers will be disarmed, subjected to orderly room trial, and sanctioned accordingly. Area Commanders and DPOs will be held fully responsible for the conduct of their personnel”.
On the order banning the activities of masquerades in the state, CP Azare directed Area Commanders, DPOs and Tactical Commanders to ensure the enforcement of the ban.
“CP Azare further reminded officers of the Akwa Ibom State Government’s ban on masquerade activities, noting that such gatherings have recently led to breaches of peace, violence, and public disturbances.
He directed all Area Commanders, DPOs, and Tactical Commanders to enforce the ban strictly, warning that any form of negligence or compromise by officers will attract disciplinary consequences”.
The statement also quoted the Akwa Ibom State Police boss condemning the rising circulation of fake news and misinformation in the state, hinting that the 15-years old Favour Emenyi who fabricated a video with false information about kidnap incident at Mary Hanney Secondary School, Oron, has been arrested and on her way to the court.
The release continued “The Commissioner condemned the rising circulation of fake news and misinformation, especially on social media, which has the potential to create panic and undermine the existing peace in the state.
He directed officers to intensify community engagements, monitor emerging threats, and ensure that persons involved in the deliberate spread of falsehood are identified and prosecuted.
“In response to emerging security concerns such as cultism, armed robbery, and street gang activities, the CP ordered all Tactical Units, Area Commands, and Divisions to embark on rigorous stop-and-search operations, intelligence-led raids on black spots, and sustained surveillance on suspected criminal hideouts. He emphasized that these operations must be professional, lawful, and citizens must not be subjected to unnecessary harassment.
“CP Baba Mohammed Azare reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to maintaining Akwa Ibom State as one of the most peaceful states in Nigeria. He urged officers to remain disciplined, alert, and fully dedicated to their constitutional responsibilities, noting that the success of policing depends largely on professionalism, teamwork, and public trust.
The Commissioner called on residents to remain law-abiding and to promptly report suspicious activities to the nearest police formation. He assured the public that the Command will continue to strengthen collaborative efforts with other security agencies to ensure sustained peace and security.
One David Effiong who was on the prowl with full masquerade regalia disrupting public peace and other suspects arrested for the offense of fake news fabrication and circulation namely Lexis Christoper, Stephen Okwen, and Miss Favour Emenyi ‘f’ aged 15yrs, a student of Mary Hanney Secondary School, Oron are all on their way to court”.
