A magistrate court in Uyo capital of Akwa Ibom State has declared that a masquerade had his right violated when police arrested him for parading the street with his regalia.
Arrested by the police in Akwa Ibom State on Tuesday, 2 December 2025, masquerade David Effiong was brought to the court on charges of causing public disorder.
Giving its ruling on Thursday, the Magistrate Court on Fulga Road, Uyo, declared: “The arrest of traditional worshipper, Mr. Effiong in Akwa Ibom is unlawful.”
He ordered immediate and unconditional release of Effiong, the person behind the mask.
Apart from ordering the release of the accused, the court also ordered the state government to pay Mr. Effiong for damages, violation of his human rights and freedom of worship.
BACKGROUND: GOVERNOR UMO ENO VERSUS EKPO MASQUERADES (X POST DEC 3, 2025)
I signed an Executive Order banning masquerade activities on the streets and highways of Akwa Ibom State.
This decision was necessary to protect our people from the harassment, violence, and public disorder these activities have recently caused.
I fully respect our culture, but no cultural practice should endanger lives or disrupt public peace. If anyone wishes to display masquerades, it must be confined to village squares—not our streets, not our communities.
As we welcome thousands of visitors this Christmas season, we must show that Akwa Ibom is peaceful, orderly, and safe. I have directed security agencies to enforce this order across all 31 LGAs.
We will continue to promote our rich culture and tourism, but never at the expense of public safety or human dignity.
