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By Oscar Okhifo
The Police in Akwa Ibom State have arrested a leader of a masquerade group and an accomplice for allegedly attacking members of the public and forcefully extorting money during an unapproved cultural display in Essien Udim Local Government Area.
The suspects, identified as 45-year-old Uwem Umanah and 34-year-old David Michael, were apprehended after reportedly blocking a public road at Ukana Onuk Village and assaulting passers-by, including National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members.
The duo allegedly demanded tolls from motorists and residents while armed with machetes, spears and sticks.
Confirming their arrest, the Commissioner of Police, Baba Mohammed Azare, said the suspects had clearly violated a state directive banning unregulated masquerade outings.
“The Command will not permit criminal elements to hide under the guise of cultural practices to intimidate or extort law-abiding citizens,” he said.
Masquerades are among some traditional groups that claim to represent and advance the works of ancestral gods.
However, their activities have increasingly drawn concern nationwide due to cases of harassment, assault and illegal extortion.
Incidents such as the Oro Festival in Lagos and similar occurrences in other states like Okene in Kogi state and the South East, have repeatedly tested the balance between cultural expression and citizens’ rights.
Observers say that now that a masquerade leader is in trouble with the law, it remains to be seen whether the “gods” they claim to serve will rescue him from justice.
Many Nigerians argue that while freedom of worship must be protected, it should never impede the freedom, safety and dignity of others.
Azare urged community leaders to ensure that traditional displays are conducted peacefully and within the confines of the law, stressing that any masquerade activity must receive prior security approval to prevent further abuses.
The suspects have been charged to court as investigations continue.
It is expected that, the action taken in Akwa Ibom will encourage other law enforcement agencies across the country to curb masquerade-related criminali