Police Arrest Two Suspected Masquerades Over Roadblock, Extortion in Akwa Ibom

The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has arrested two men for allegedly mounting an illegal roadblock, extorting commuters, and brandishing dangerous weapons under the guise of Ekpo masquerade activities.
​The suspects, identified as Godspower Ubong and Blessing Jumbo, both males from Utu Ikot Imonte Village in Etim Ekpo Local Government Area, were apprehended around 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, November 14, 2026.
​According to the command, police operatives on routine patrol intercepted the duo while they were blocking a section of the Etim Ekpo–Azumini Road, disrupting both vehicular and pedestrian traffic.
​Preliminary investigations revealed that the suspects accosted road users to demand money while allegedly wielding machetes and other weapons to intimidate commuters. A subsequent search conducted on the suspects led to the recovery of two knives.
​In a statement confirming the incident, the police command noted that the suspects were immediately taken into custody.
​“The suspects, identified as Godspower Ubong, male, and Blessing Jumbo, male, both of Utu Ikot Imonte Village, Etim Ekpo Local Government Area, were promptly arrested and taken into police custody,” the statement read. “A search conducted on the suspects led to the recovery of two knives suspected to have been used in furtherance of their unlawful activities.”
​Reacting to the arrest, the State Commissioner of Police, CP Baba Mohammed Azare, maintained that no individual or group is above the law. While acknowledging the value of traditional institutions and cultural heritage, Azare stressed that cultural displays must operate strictly within legal boundaries without infringing on individual rights, public safety, or order.
​He issued a stern warning against illegal roadblocks, extortion, and the possession of dangerous weapons capable of breaching public peace.
​“The Command will not hesitate to arrest and prosecute anyone found culpable,” Azare stated.
​The Commissioner further directed tactical teams and divisions across the state to sustain intelligence-led patrols and enforcement operations to prevent individuals from taking the law into their own hands. He reassured residents of the command’s commitment to protecting lives and property, urging the public to promptly report suspicious movements or acts of extortion to the nearest police station.